Patient’s outlook towards the services rendered by subcentres after introduction of Ayushmann Bharat scheme in Gujarat- A cross-sectional study

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background:

To meet the global pledge of achieving the sustainable development goal of universal health coverage, the

Government of India launched Ayushmann Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana in 2018. Since then, there has

been little knowledge regarding the acceptance of this program at the community level. This study aims to evaluate

the uptake of services provided under the Ayushman Bharat program at subcentres from beneficiaries’ perspectives

in the Vadodara district, Western India.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study with a mixed-method approach was carried out among newly transformed subcentres into

functional Health and Wellness centers for six months. Thirty percent (N=27 subcentres) of functional subcentres

were randomly selected from each taluka based on probability proportionate to size. Exit interviews of 3 to 4

patients were taken at selected subcentres from Vadodara district, Gujarat, from November 2020 to April 2021.

Results:

Exit interviews were conducted with 100 patients, including equal numbers of males and females. It was found that

most patients were satisfied with the current functioning of subcentres, which provided a comprehensive range of

services, provided essential drugs and diagnostics, and improved the availability and good conduct of healthcare

providers.

Conclusion:

Ayushmann Bharat program has reinforced India's primary healthcare delivery system in providing better services,

staff, and logistics to the community and improving trust in the government healthcare system.