Compassion in Primary Healthcare Systems

In January, the World Health Organization (WHO) published a report emphasizing the need for compassion in primary healthcare. Compassion, characterized by awareness, empathy, and action, is identified as a transformative force driving quality care and health system transformation.

India's Primary Healthcare Infrastructure

• India has a vast primary healthcare network consisting of: 
  • 1.6 lakh sub-centres catering to 3,000-5,000 people each.
  • 26,636 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) serving 20,000-30,000 people each.
  • 6,155 Community Health Centres (CHCs) for 80,000-1,20,000 people each.

Examples of Compassionate Care in Different Areas

Rural Example: Udaipur, Rajasthan

• Dr. Vidith Panchal provides care in remote tribal areas through the Amrit clinics by Basic Health Services (BHS).
• Dr. Panchal showcased "clinical courage" by managing a terminally ill tuberculosis patient at a PHC instead of referring him to distant hospitals.
• Amrit clinics have increased patient footfall from 40,000 in 2021 to 51,930 in 2024.

Urban Example: ASHA Workers in Gujarat

• Praveena Ben, an ASHA worker, trained by SWATI NGO to identify and support domestic violence survivors.
• Implemented an 'upward referral' chain to address violence as a public health issue from community to district hospitals.

Key Lessons and Implications

• Successful healthcare systems require: 
  • Compassionate human relationships built on trust and respect.
  • Empowerment of healthcare personnel to respond to community needs.
  • Structured governance and accountability.
• Despite underfunding and understaffing, existing infrastructure can meet varied needs through responsive empowerment.

In conclusion, these examples demonstrate the potential for compassion to improve primary healthcare in India, leading to more responsive and effective systems.