A Study of Utilization of AYUSH Services at A Primary Health Centre In Goa

Abstract

Background: Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) together known as the Indian system of medicine is an antique system of health care which still persists in spite of advent of Modern Allopathic practice. This may be due to varied factors that influence the health seeking attitude of an individual. Though the integration of AYUSH in primary health centre has been initiated, its performance still needs to be evaluated. Therefore, the present study was undertakenwith the following objectives:1)To determine the extent and pattern of utilization of the integrated AYUSH services at a primary health center2)To study the profile of patients utilizing these services Methods: It is a retrospective record based study conducted in a primary health center with integrated AYUSH services namely (Ayurveda and Homeopathy clinics). Results:Of the total 3330 patients, 512 (15.4%) patients attended Ayurveda clinic whereas 2818 (84.6%) patients attended Homeopathy clinic. Majority of the patients were females(54.5% in Ayurveda clinic and 75.3% in Homeopathy Clinic). The proportion of new patients was higher among the Ayurveda and Homeopathy Clinic (65.23% and 89.10% respectively) as compared to follow up patients. These services were well utilized by patients in the age group of 31-60 years. Conclusion: AYUSH services are well utilized at a primary health center. More awareness among the people regarding AYUSH and its services is definitely needed in order to provide health care to the rural people. [Elvira NNJIRM 2017; 8(5):57-60]