Revealed: Why Rural Primary Health Centers Outperform District Hospitals in Managing Diabetes and Hypertension, According to ICMR

A recent study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) highlights a concerning trend in India’s healthcare system. It shows that while Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in rural areas are better equipped to handle diabetes and hypertension care, district hospitals lack crucial diagnostic services. This gap raises questions about the overall preparedness of our secondary healthcare facilities.

Dr. Tamorish Kole, a former chair of the Clinical Practice Committee at the International Federation for Emergency Medicine, emphasizes that both PHCs and district hospitals play key roles in our public health system. PHCs focus on basic and preventive care, whereas district hospitals are supposed to manage more complex health issues.

Yet, the study found that many district hospitals are not adequately prepared to handle complications from diabetes and hypertension. Strengthening these facilities is vital. Dr. Kole suggests that improving diagnostic capabilities is essential for effective patient referrals and treatment.

The State of Diabetes and Hypertension in India

India is facing a significant health challenge. It has the world’s second-highest number of adults with diabetes. More than 25% of adults also suffer from hypertension. In 2019, around 3% of total deaths in India were attributed to diabetes alone. According to the National Non-Communicable Disease Monitoring Survey (NNMS), the prevalence rates for these conditions are troubling—9.3% for diabetes and 28.5% for hypertension among adults aged 18 to 69.

Survey Insights

The ICMR’s study involved a cross-sectional survey across 19 districts in seven states, including Haryana and Karnataka. They assessed both public and private health facilities using established guidelines. Out of 415 facilities surveyed, 75.7% were public, mostly located in rural areas.

A significant finding was that diagnostic services at district hospitals were lacking, which means they are not fully ready to tackle complications of these diseases. The study stresses the need for better diagnostic services for a smooth continuum of care, especially as patients are referred from smaller health facilities to district hospitals.

Addressing Medicine Supply Issues

Moreover, the study pointed out a lack of essential medicines in healthcare facilities. Dr. Kole noted that addressing this issue is crucial for program managers and policymakers. Ensuring a consistent supply of medicines can significantly enhance preparedness at all levels of the healthcare system.

The findings also showed that PHCs were better equipped for diabetes and hypertension care than smaller clinics and community health centers. This raises the importance of developing human resources and maintaining a steady supply of essential medications.

Transforming Health Centres

The government’s initiative to transform PHCs into Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) is a noteworthy move. Dr. Kole believes this initiative emphasizes primary prevention, which could be more effective and cost-efficient compared to secondary prevention. Investing in preventive care can lead to improved health outcomes and a reduced burden on higher-level facilities.

By putting focus on early detection and lifestyle changes, the healthcare system can better manage the rise of non-communicable diseases. This proactive approach not only promises better health but also eases the pressure on our healthcare infrastructure in the long run.

In conclusion, while there are positive steps being taken, there’s still considerable work ahead. With a commitment to improving both diagnostic services and the availability of essential medicines, India can enhance its readiness to tackle chronic health conditions like diabetes and hypertension, ensuring a healthier future for all.

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ICMR, DIABETES, HYPERTENSION CARE, PRIMARY HEALTH CENTRES, DISTRICT HOSPITALS, PHCS ARE BETTER PREPARED THAN DISTRICT HOSPITALS FOR DIABETES AND HYPERTENSION CARE: ICMR