Study Protocol for Process Evaluation of Health and Wellness Center Programme in Bhandara District of Maharashtra

Abstract

Background: Ayushman Bharat programme, which was started by Government of India in 2018-19, has two components. First component is up gradation of existing primary health centres and sub centres in to Health and Wellness centers (HWCs), which will deliver comprehensive primary health care services at government facility level in rural area within no more than 30 minutes. Non-Communicable disease services is the integral part of comprehensive primary care. This study aims to assess availability and readiness of Health and Wellness centres at sub centres for provision of Non communicable disease Services in rural area of Bhandara district and to assess utilization of Non communicable disease Services in rural area of Bhandara district. Methodology: This implementation research will be conducted in Health and Wellness Sub centers from rural areas of Bhandara district. It will include the facility assessment of Sub centers. Household survey will be conducted by a stratified multi-stage sampling design using Digital questionnaire Standardized and validated Facility survey Tool, Service delivery Tool and Household survey Tools. Data will be analyzed using STATA-14 software. Expected Results: Increase in coverage and utilization of Non communicable disease Services in Health and Wellness Centre Subcenters in rural area and reduction in out of pocket expenditure of villagers is expected. Conclusion: The proposed component of NCD services matches well with health and wellness programme targets in district and is helpful in delivery of non-communicable disease services in rural areas.