The government has announced a steadfast commitment to fortifying district hospitals under the National Health Mission (NHM). Pioneering efforts have been put into motion to elevate the performance and quality of services offered by these crucial healthcare institutions.
Underlining this commitment are various initiatives, including the Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres (now Ayushman Arogya Mandir), Emergency COVID Response Package (ECRP) I & II, 15th Finance Commission, and the Prime Minister’s Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM). These initiatives aim to enhance the overall infrastructure of healthcare facilities, ensuring a robust response to emergencies like the ongoing pandemic.
To empower district hospitals, ongoing efforts focus on developing their capacities as training hubs for healthcare professionals such as nurses, ANMs, paramedics, and providing Diplomate National Board (DNB)/CPS courses for medical officers.
In a bid to make healthcare more patient-centric, the government has integrated the “Mera Aspataal” patient feedback system into district hospitals. National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certification is actively implemented to ensure the safety and quality of services provided through public health facilities.
Recognizing the pivotal role of data in evaluating hospital performance, efforts have been made to strengthen the Health Management and Information System (HMIS). The HMIS data, crucial for assessing district hospitals, is used to determine performance based on 17 Key Performance Indicators jointly finalized by NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The indicators cover the domains of Structure, Process, Output, and Outcome.
To alleviate the financial burden on patients, the government has rolled out the Free Drugs Service Initiative and Free Diagnostics Initiative under the NHM. Additionally, specialist care has become more accessible through tele-consultation platforms like e-Sanjeevani.
Looking ahead, the second round of assessment will involve data validation of HMIS-reported data against corresponding physical records for about 10% of total district hospitals.
