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There is a global rise of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), causing significant morbidity and mortality. Risk factors of NCDs commonly include drinking alcohol, smoking, eating unhealthy diet, and sedentary lifestyle. The current health-care system faces challenges dealing with them. In order to deal with this pandemic, the strengthening of primary health centers (PHCs) at community level is required, which supports the principles of promotion, prevention, and treatment of NCDs. Yoga is an ancient practice encompassing physical, mental, social, and spiritual techniques to obtain health. Numerous studies have proven the potential benefits of Yoga in reducing chronic physical and mental health issues, making it a cost-effective method to enhance overall well-being and reduce health-care costs. This review paper aims to explore the profound impact of integrating yoga in PHCs, focusing on its benefits in enhancing patient outcomes, supporting overall health and wellness. The study searched PubMed and Google for scholarly articles on yoga in primary care, public health care, promotion of health, rehabilitation care, cancer, wellness, prevention, health care, etc. By examining the role of yoga in PHCs, this paper seeks to provide insights into the potential of yoga as a complementary approach to conventional treatments. The paper concludes that the burden of NCDs can be addressed by increasing human resources and promoting preventive health care through Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy personnel. Integrating yoga in PHCs will raise awareness about lifestyle management and ultimately reduce the prevalence of diseases.

Abstract Background Young people (aged 10 to 24 years) in sub-Saharan Africa bear a huge and disproportionate burden of poor sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes due to inequalities and discrimination in accessing sexual and reproductive health services (SRHS). This study assessed the experiences and perceptions of discrimination among young people seeking SRH services in Primary Health Centers (PHCs) using an intersectionality lens. Methods A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was undertaken in six local government areas (LGAs) in Ebonyi State, southeast Nigeria. The LGAs comprise both urban and rural locations. The study population for the quantitative survey consisted of 1025 randomly selected young boys and girls aged 15–24 years. Eleven focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with the young people. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed for quantitative data, while thematic analysis was performed for the qualitative data, using NVivo. Results A total of 16.68% participants in the survey reported that young girls/women were treated badly/unfairly compared to young boys/men when seeking SRH services in PHCs; 15.22% reported that young clients get treated badly/unfairly from adults; and 12.49% reported that young clients with poor economic status were treated unfairly. Respondents also reported that young clients with disability (12.12%), and those who are poorly educated or uneducated (10.63%) are treated badly by healthcare providers when they access SRH services. Young people in urban areas were about 7 times more likely to believe that girls/young women are treated badly than boys/young men when seeking SRH services in PHCs compared to those who live in rural areas (p

Background: Young people (aged 10 to 24 years) in sub-Saharan Africa bear a huge and disproportionate burden of poor sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes due to inequalities and discrimination in accessing sexual and reproductive health services (SRHS). This study assessed the experiences and perceptions of discrimination among young people seeking SRH services in Primary Health Centers (PHCs) using an intersectionality lens. Methods: A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was undertaken in six local government areas (LGAs) in Ebonyi State, southeast Nigeria. The LGAs comprise both urban and rural locations. The study population for the quantitative survey consisted of 1025 randomly selected young boys and girls aged 15–24 years. Eleven focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with the young people. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed for quantitative data, while thematic analysis was performed for the qualitative data, using NVivo. Results: A total of 16.68% participants in the survey reported that young girls/women were treated badly/unfairly compared to young boys/men when seeking SRH services in PHCs; 15.22% reported that young clients get treated badly/unfairly from adults; and 12.49% reported that young clients with poor economic status were treated unfairly. Respondents also reported that young clients with disability (12.12%), and those who are poorly educated or uneducated (10.63%) are treated badly by healthcare providers when they access SRH services. Young people in urban areas were about 7 times more likely to believe that girls/young women are treated badly than boys/young men when seeking SRH services in PHCs compared to those who live in rural areas (p < 0.001). Among the young girls/women, residing in urban areas, being poor and in school increased the likelihood of getting treated badly/unfairly when receiving SRH services by 4 times (p < 0.001). The qualitative results revealed that health workers were generally harsh to young people seeking SRH services and the level of harshness or unfriendliness of the health workers varied depending on the young person's social identity. Conclusion: There are varieties of intersecting factors that contribute to the discrimination of young clients in PHCs. This underscores the urgent need to prioritize intersectional perspectives in the design and implementation of interventions that will improve access and use of SRH services by young people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Access to oral healthcare is limited in rural areas, resulting in disparities in oral health services. Primary health centers (PHCs) are essential for providing integrated oral healthcare to rural populations. This study examines the patterns, barriers, and utilization of oral healthcare at PHCs in Rohtak district, Haryana. Materials and Methods: In this 6-month household cross-sectional study, data were collected from a sample of 600 participants residing in rural areas under the jurisdiction of three randomly selected PHCs in Rohtak district. The study employed multistage cluster systematic random sampling procedures. Data collection included structured questionnaires and clinical oral examinations following the type-III ADA classification. Participants' oral health status was evaluated using the WHO oral health assessment form for adults (2013). Descriptive and analytical statistics were used for data analysis. Results and Discussion: Dental caries and periodontal diseases were more common in older age groups. Barriers to oral healthcare among the elderly include fear of dental procedures and low dental literacy. Proximity to PHCs influenced dental service utilization, with higher rates among participants living near a PHC, that is, within 5 km of a PHC. Conclusion: Age, gender, proximity to PHCs, household size, and socioeconomic status play crucial roles in the utilization of oral health services among the rural population. Addressing these factors is essential for improving oral healthcare and overcoming barriers. It is crucial to enhance the accessibility, affordability, and availability of oral health services at PHCs to promote better oral health and overall well-being in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The utilization of the maternal and newborn health services has increased, but mere increase in utilization of services does not ensure that quality services are being provided. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of maternal and newborn services and their impact on maternal and neonatal outcome at a primary health center of Western Rajasthan in India. Materials and Methods: An exploratory study was undertaken at a conveniently selected primary health center providing 24-hour delivery services. Information regarding the availability of services was collected from the available medical officer in charge using an Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) Proforma. Assessment of quality of services was performed by using WHO standards of care based on assessment of quality of maternal and newborn services tool by the perspectives of the provider as well as the mothers utilizing the services. 36 mothers who delivered at the selected PHC were interviewed. Results: All basic obstetric care services were available at the selected primary health centers including the 24 × 7 delivery services. The assessment of quality by provider's perspective revealed that the system of referral could be improved. Quality of maternal and newborn services assessment revealed that the practice of skin to skin contact between the mother and newborn just after the delivery was not being followed and few (30%) mothers informed that they could not start breastfeeding within 1 hours of birth. 47% mothers reported that they were not given the freedom to ask questions during delivery. Maternal and newborn outcome revealed that all mothers (100%) had a normal vaginal delivery, and 22% mothers had an episiotomy. All (100%) newborns cried immediately after birth, and average birthweight was 2.89 kg. Conclusion: PHCs are the first point of contact of mothers and healthcare delivery system. Assessment of quality of services is an important tool for quality assurance. Inclusion of evidence-based practices like skin-to-skin contact and early initiation of breastfeeding is important to improve the maternal and newborn well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Access to oral healthcare is limited in rural areas, resulting in disparities in oral health services. Primary health centers (PHCs) are essential for providing integrated oral healthcare to rural populations. This study examines the patterns, barriers, and utilization of oral healthcare at PHCs in Rohtak district, Haryana. Materials and Methods: In this 6-month household cross-sectional study, data were collected from a sample of 600 participants residing in rural areas under the jurisdiction of three randomly selected PHCs in Rohtak district. The study employed multistage cluster systematic random sampling procedures. Data collection included structured questionnaires and clinical oral examinations following the type-III ADA classification. Participants' oral health status was evaluated using the WHO oral health assessment form for adults (2013). Descriptive and analytical statistics were used for data analysis. Results and Discussion: Dental caries and periodontal diseases were more common in older age groups. Barriers to oral healthcare among the elderly include fear of dental procedures and low dental literacy. Proximity to PHCs influenced dental service utilization, with higher rates among participants living near a PHC, that is, within 5 km of a PHC. Conclusion: Age, gender, proximity to PHCs, household size, and socioeconomic status play crucial roles in the utilization of oral health services among the rural population. Addressing these factors is essential for improving oral healthcare and overcoming barriers. It is crucial to enhance the accessibility, affordability, and availability of oral health services at PHCs to promote better oral health and overall well-being in rural areas.

Introduction: The utilization of the maternal and newborn health services has increased, but mere increase in utilization of services does not ensure that quality services are being provided. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of maternal and newborn services and their impact on maternal and neonatal outcome at a primary health center of Western Rajasthan in India. Materials and Methods: An exploratory study was undertaken at a conveniently selected primary health center providing 24-hour delivery services. Information regarding the availability of services was collected from the available medical officer in charge using an Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) Proforma. Assessment of quality of services was performed by using WHO standards of care based on assessment of quality of maternal and newborn services tool by the perspectives of the provider as well as the mothers utilizing the services. 36 mothers who delivered at the selected PHC were interviewed. Results: All basic obstetric care services were available at the selected primary health centers including the 24 × 7 delivery services. The assessment of quality by provider's perspective revealed that the system of referral could be improved. Quality of maternal and newborn services assessment revealed that the practice of skin to skin contact between the mother and newborn just after the delivery was not being followed and few (30%) mothers informed that they could not start breastfeeding within 1 hours of birth. 47% mothers reported that they were not given the freedom to ask questions during delivery. Maternal and newborn outcome revealed that all mothers (100%) had a normal vaginal delivery, and 22% mothers had an episiotomy. All (100%) newborns cried immediately after birth, and average birthweight was 2.89 kg. Conclusion: PHCs are the first point of contact of mothers and healthcare delivery system. Assessment of quality of services is an important tool for quality assurance. Inclusion of evidence-based practices like skin-to-skin contact and early initiation of breastfeeding is important to improve the maternal and newborn well-being.

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common form of autoimmune inflammatory arthritis with an Indian prevalence of around 0.75%. Nearly 55% of Indians resort to primary health-care centers as their first point of contact. MBBS students must be well equipped to diagnose and treat patients with RA within the community and refer the relevant cases appropriately to higher medical facilities. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted assessing the basic knowledge of RA in senior medical undergraduate students in two domains. The first domain included assessment, clinical features, and diagnosis of RA while the second domain included treatment, radiological features, and therapeutics of RA. The total score was summed up for each domain. Self-assessment of knowledge was also inquired. The questionnaire was validated after a pilot study. The analysis was done using SPSS software using Pearson's Chi-square test for correlation and paired t-test for comparison with basic descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 142 students participated, classified by year of study. There were 69% of female respondents. The mean self-assessment value was 4.82 ± 1.944, and the mean score in the questionnaire was 7.27 ± 2.183. The mean score out of 9 for Domain A was 5.09 ± 1.63 and for Domain B out of 4 was 2.17 ± 0.977. Students performed better in Domain B. A significant association was found between final assessment score and year of study (P < 0.01) as well as self-assessment and year of study (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Participants had less confidence in themselves as compared to how they performed. Female students performed better. Awareness about Domain B was higher, and senior students performed better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Purpose As the older adult population in Taiwan continues to increase, primary health centers (PHCs) play a crucial role in geriatric care. This study explored the differences in the PHC experiences and usage needs of older adults in urban versus rural areas. Methods A qualitative study was conducted. Twenty-one older adults were recruited from PHCs in northern, central, southern, and eastern Taiwan. Semistructured interviews were used to collect data, and the interview guidelines included their reasons for visiting PHCs, the health-care services they received, their evaluation of the services, and the advantages and disadvantages of these centers. The data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results The PHC usage needs of older adults in urban areas differ from those of older adults in rural areas in the following 3 aspects: (1) Medical services: older adults in rural areas demand clinics specializing in various medical domains, mobile and home medical care, and case management, whereas those in urban areas demand mobile health examinations. (2) Environment and transportation: older adults in rural areas demand diverse medical equipment, shuttle services, and accessible facilities, whereas those in urban areas demand recreational facilities. (3) Active aging: older adults in rural areas demand health education courses, and those in urban areas demand diverse senior citizen courses as well as opportunities to volunteer and build interpersonal relationships. Conclusion The older adults in urban and rural areas had different PHC usage needs. The older adults in rural areas generally focused on medical care and transportation services in PHCs, whereas those in urban areas generally focused on health promotion as a means of social participation and active aging.

Purpose: As the older adult population in Taiwan continues to increase, primary health centers (PHCs) play a crucial role in geriatric care. This study explored the differences in the PHC experiences and usage needs of older adults in urban versus rural areas. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted. Twenty-one older adults were recruited from PHCs in northern, central, southern, and eastern Taiwan. Semistructured interviews were used to collect data, and the interview guidelines included their reasons for visiting PHCs, the health-care services they received, their evaluation of the services, and the advantages and disadvantages of these centers. The data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results: The PHC usage needs of older adults in urban areas differ from those of older adults in rural areas in the following 3 aspects: (1) Medical services: older adults in rural areas demand clinics specializing in various medical domains, mobile and home medical care, and case management, whereas those in urban areas demand mobile health examinations. (2) Environment and transportation: older adults in rural areas demand diverse medical equipment, shuttle services, and accessible facilities, whereas those in urban areas demand recreational facilities. (3) Active aging: older adults in rural areas demand health education courses, and those in urban areas demand diverse senior citizen courses as well as opportunities to volunteer and build interpersonal relationships. Conclusion: The older adults in urban and rural areas had different PHC usage needs. The older adults in rural areas generally focused on medical care and transportation services in PHCs, whereas those in urban areas generally focused on health promotion as a means of social participation and active aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction Outpatient services are crucial for strengthening primary healthcare and reducing out-of-pocket spending, which has been one of the major causes of impoverishment. So it is also critical to comprehend the people’s preferences in accessing primary healthcare facilities, as government primary healthcare facilities in India are underutilized. The current paper explores the factors that construct the individual’s decision to seek outpatient care in primary healthcare facilities in India’s largest state Rajasthan. Methods It was a cross-sectional survey conducted in 72 primary sample units of 24 primary health centers in 11 districts of Rajasthan, India, from November 2019 to January 2020. The study selected 368 households through purposive sampling. Out of 368 households, 460 people reported any illness and 326 reported outpatient visit to any health facility in the last 30 days from the date of the survey. Analysis The focus was on analyzing the data in the context of public and private health facilities to understand the factors influencing people’s choice to access outpatient services. The principal component analysis is used to understand the relationship between facility preparedness and OPD uptake. Also, multivariate logistic regression is applied to assess the significant predictors in using primary health facility services. Result Except for the 29% of patients who received no care, the proportion of patients attended public health facilities was 35%, and the rest were utilizing private health facilities. Those who sought care at PHCs were mostly over 45 years age, non-literate, and from the lowest wealth quintile. Logistic regression suggests that people belong to upper wealth quintile (OR = 0.298; 95% 0.118–0.753) are less likely to visit PHCs for treatment. Also, increase in distance of PHC (OR = 0.203; 95% CI 0.076–0.539) reduces the likelihood of their visit outpatient care. People are 9.7 times (OR = 9.740; 95% CI 2.856–33.217) more likely to visit a PHCs that are better equipped in terms of human resources, equipment, and medicine. Conclusion The uptake of PHCs depends on several factors, which should be considered to ensure that all segments of society have equitable access to them. Through improved accessibility and quality of service, PHCs can be made more appealing to the larger population.

Introduction: Nurses act as the major manpower of the primary healthcare setting by representing nearly half of all health professionals in India. Turnover among nurses in rural Primary Health Centres (PHCs) is receiving a great deal of attention around the world in both professional publications and the media. We have conducted a rapid literature review and from thereon, developed an analytical framework on the determinants of turnover of nurses in rural PHCs and policies adopted in India to overcome it. Literature reviews on studies addressing the turnover of registered nurses working in rural PHCs are scarce. The current review aims to develop an interpretive framework for future research and policymaking on nurse turnover of nurses in rural PHCs in India. Methods: The review includes policy documents, rural health statistics reports, quantitative, qualitative, and mixed studies on the turnover of nurses and policies adopted in rural PHCs in India. The articles published from 01 January 2001 to 31 October 2021, available in the English language will be screened by searching through databases, grey literature, and tracking. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) 2018 will be used for screening and the search process will be reported in the PRISMA flowchart 2020. The data on turnover of nurses will be synthesized in two ways: the magnitude of the problem, the determinants of turnover, and the policies designed to overcome it. Discussion: The interpretive framework can be used for future research and policy informing of exact-estimated, underestimated, overestimated, and non-estimated determinants and adopting policies on nurse turnover in rural PHCs in their context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Family planning services have been given importance for decades. For various reasons, sterilization has been the first choice of women and the government. It is feared that while achieving large numbers, the quality may be compromised. There were Public Interest Litigations in Supreme Court about the compromised quality of sterilization services. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the quality of sterilization services before and after interventions and the quality between types of institutions. Materials and Methods: This study was carried out in two phases. The first phase included visits to 33 institutions from 13 districts on sterilization operation days. The observed lacunae were communicated to the government, and accordingly, some interventions were executed by the government. In the second phase, we visited 13 institutions from five districts. The investigators were from the Department of Community Medicine, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University Medical College, Pune, India. We used assessment tools based on the Government of India’s guidelines. One device was developed to assess the quality of services, and marks were given by dichotomizing the observations. In both phases, the same tool was used. The maximum score was 140. Results: In the first phase, an institution’s mean score was 94.15 (±7.58). There was no difference between the types of institutions. In the second phase, the mean score improved to 103.27 (±13.29) (t = 2.94; P = 0.01); the hospital score improved from 91.00 to 109.83 (t = 4.94; P = 0.001). Conclusion: The findings of this unique multisite study indicate that interventions indeed led to improvements in both primary health centers and hospitals, but the extent of improvement was more significant in hospitals.

Abstract Background Taiwan is predicted to become a super-aged society by 2025, and primary health centers (PHCs) are set to play a crucial role in the care of older adults. The Taiwanese government has developed an age-friendly verification framework for PHC. The aims of this study were to explore the difficulties faced by PHC staff in the implementation of age-friendly policies and their solution strategies. Methods This study adopted a qualitative research method. The first stage involved conducting five focus groups with the responsible staff of PHCs (n = 41) that have been certified “age-friendly.” The focus groups covered the effectiveness, difficulties, and resources of PHCs in regards to the introduction of age-friendly policies. In the second stage, in-depth interviews were conducted with executives of PHCs (n = 5), both certified and not certified as age-friendly, to further compare the difficulties faced by these two types of PHCs, thereby gaining perspectives for solution strategies. The principles of grounded theory were used for data analysis. Results Four major PHC strategies are employed in the promotion of age-friendliness. First, organizational management, through which managers apply management methods and analyze the present PHC-related health concerns; second, resource utilization, which refers to the tallying, linking, and integrating of resources; third, business operation process, in which work efficiency is improved through the combination of business operations and staff training; finally, hardware improvement, which is achieved through comprehensive cataloging of facility environments. Conclusion The implementation of age-friendliness in PHCs requires the efforts of both the service units and government. With resources provided by the government, PHCs can integrate management methods, businesses operations, and essential resources. Moreover, PHC executives can lead their teams in promoting age-friendly policies, and closely monitor their effectiveness.

Ashokkumar Thirunavukkarasu,1 Abdullah Naser Abdullah Alshahrani,1,2 Doaa Mazen Abdel-Salam,3 Ahmad Homoud Al-Hazmi,1 Bashayer Farhan ALruwaili,1 Aseel Awad Alsaidan,1 Bayapa Reddy Narapureddy,3 Aliyah Muteb AL-Ruwaili,4 Fahad Ghuwayli aljabri,5 Rahaf Khalaf Albalawi,5 Khaled Abdulrahman F Alanazi5 1Department of Community and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia; 2Department of Public Health, Asir Health Affairs, Asir Region, Saudi Arabia; 3Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt; 4Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Jouf Health Affairs, Sakaka, Aljouf, Saudi Arabia; 5College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Ashokkumar Thirunavukkarasu, Email ashokkumar@ju.edu.saBackground and Objectives: Optimal blood pressure control is achieved by medication adherence. This will reduce the risk of associated morbidities and mortalities. The present study aimed to determine medication adherence and its associated factors among hypertensive patients attending different primary health centers (PHC) in Abha, Saudi Arabia (KSA).Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among ten different PHCs in Abha, KSA. Simple random sampling procedure was utilized to choose 400 participants. A structured anonymous questionnaire was used in the present study. Analysis of the data was done using the SPSS program, version 23. A logistic regression statistical test was applied to identify the independent associated factors of medication adherence. Furthermore, we have applied Spearman’s test to find the correlation between overall B-IPQ score and medication adherence score.Results: A total of 400 hypertensive patients responded in the present survey. More than one-third of the participants (36.3%) were in the high adherence category group, while the remaining participants (63.7%) were either low or medium adherence category. The binary logistic regression analysis revealed that low and medium adherence category is significantly associated with age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.96, 95% CI =0.93– 0.99, p = 0.021), married participants (AOR = 0.42, 95% CI =0.33– 0.58, p = 0.001), residing at village (AOR = 1.49, 95% CI =1.14– 1.73, p = 0.038), and participants with monthly family income of 5000 to 7000 SAR (AOR = 3.06, 95% CI =1.62– 5.79, p = 0.001). A negligible positive correlation was revealed between illness perception and medication adherence.Conclusion: The present study revealed that hypertensive patients poorly adhere to their antihypertensive medications. This low adherence is significantly associated with the age, monthly income, people living in rural areas, and married participants. The present study results recommend sustained efforts to implement health education programs and awareness-raising interventions targeted at hypertensive patients.Keywords: medication adherence, hypertension, illness perception, primary health centers, Saudi Arabia

Introduction: Outpatient services are crucial for strengthening primary healthcare and reducing out-of-pocket spending, which has been one of the major causes of impoverishment. So it is also critical to comprehend the people's preferences in accessing primary healthcare facilities, as government primary healthcare facilities in India are underutilized. The current paper explores the factors that construct the individual's decision to seek outpatient care in primary healthcare facilities in India's largest state Rajasthan. Methods: It was a cross-sectional survey conducted in 72 primary sample units of 24 primary health centers in 11 districts of Rajasthan, India, from November 2019 to January 2020. The study selected 368 households through purposive sampling. Out of 368 households, 460 people reported any illness and 326 reported outpatient visit to any health facility in the last 30 days from the date of the survey. Analysis: The focus was on analyzing the data in the context of public and private health facilities to understand the factors influencing people's choice to access outpatient services. The principal component analysis is used to understand the relationship between facility preparedness and OPD uptake. Also, multivariate logistic regression is applied to assess the significant predictors in using primary health facility services. Result: Except for the 29% of patients who received no care, the proportion of patients attended public health facilities was 35%, and the rest were utilizing private health facilities. Those who sought care at PHCs were mostly over 45 years age, non-literate, and from the lowest wealth quintile. Logistic regression suggests that people belong to upper wealth quintile (OR = 0.298; 95% 0.118–0.753) are less likely to visit PHCs for treatment. Also, increase in distance of PHC (OR = 0.203; 95% CI 0.076–0.539) reduces the likelihood of their visit outpatient care. People are 9.7 times (OR = 9.740; 95% CI 2.856–33.217) more likely to visit a PHCs that are better equipped in terms of human resources, equipment, and medicine. Conclusion: The uptake of PHCs depends on several factors, which should be considered to ensure that all segments of society have equitable access to them. Through improved accessibility and quality of service, PHCs can be made more appealing to the larger population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Taiwan is predicted to become a super-aged society by 2025, and primary health centers (PHCs) are set to play a crucial role in the care of older adults. The Taiwanese government has developed an age-friendly verification framework for PHC. The aims of this study were to explore the difficulties faced by PHC staff in the implementation of age-friendly policies and their solution strategies.Methods: This study adopted a qualitative research method. The first stage involved conducting five focus groups with the responsible staff of PHCs (n = 41) that have been certified "age-friendly." The focus groups covered the effectiveness, difficulties, and resources of PHCs in regards to the introduction of age-friendly policies. In the second stage, in-depth interviews were conducted with executives of PHCs (n = 5), both certified and not certified as age-friendly, to further compare the difficulties faced by these two types of PHCs, thereby gaining perspectives for solution strategies. The principles of grounded theory were used for data analysis.Results: Four major PHC strategies are employed in the promotion of age-friendliness. First, organizational management, through which managers apply management methods and analyze the present PHC-related health concerns; second, resource utilization, which refers to the tallying, linking, and integrating of resources; third, business operation process, in which work efficiency is improved through the combination of business operations and staff training; finally, hardware improvement, which is achieved through comprehensive cataloging of facility environments.Conclusion: The implementation of age-friendliness in PHCs requires the efforts of both the service units and government. With resources provided by the government, PHCs can integrate management methods, businesses operations, and essential resources. Moreover, PHC executives can lead their teams in promoting age-friendly policies, and closely monitor their effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthcare facilities are getting costly, and becoming non-accessible for the poor. The medical officers working in primary health centers are facing medical, legal and social problems by lack of resources and infrastructure. This study was conducted on 150 primary health centers during the period of six months from July -December 2021 in and around Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh. Medical professionals are facing problems mostly due to primary health centers are located far away from headquarters. Improving primary health care facilities in rural areas may give good results in health care system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A large number of government primary health-care facilities (GPHCFs) in India do not have access to the regular electricity supply. Objectives: To assess the status and change in electricity access, sources, and reliability at primary health centers (PHCs) in India; and to understand the effect of regular electricity supply on health services provision and on workforce availability and retention. Materials and Methods: Secondary analysis of data from the lastest two rounds of district-level household survey (DLHS) in India, conducted in 2007–2008 and 2012–2013. Results: Data of 8619 PHCs from DLHS-3 and 8540 PHCs from DLHS-4 were analyzed. The proportion of PHCs with access to electricity increased from 87% to 91%. However, regular electricity supply was available at only 50% of PHCs in 2012–2013, which was an increase from 36% such PHCs in 2007–2008. PHCs with regular electricity supply provided services to 50% more beneficiaries (deliveries and vaccination) than PHCs without regular or no electricity (P ≤ 0.001). Increased access to regular electricity was associated with improved availability and retention of health staff (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Government policies should aim to ensure access to regular electricity-supply-beyond just connection from grid-at all GPHCFs, including health sub-centers, PHCs, and community health centers. Indicators on electricity access at GPHCFs could be standardized and integrated into regular health and facility-related surveys as well as in the existing dashboards for real-time data collection. Health policy interventions should be informed by regular data collection and analysis. Improving access to regular electricity supply at GPHCFs can contribute to achieve the goals of National Health Policy of India. This will also help to advance universal health coverage in the country. There are lessons from this study, for other low and middle income countries, on improving health service provision at government health care facilities.

'Burnout is called the reduction of fuel to the substance to nothing through use or combustion. The individual who has the symptoms of burnout will be less productive at work, especially when it comes to interaction with others. The leading causes of burnout are lack of resources to work effectively, no clarity in work to be done, monotonous work, imbalance in work and personal life, not interested in the work done, and no quality in the work environment. The symptoms include problems in decision-making ability, wrong attitude, the difference in behavior, apathy, depression, not cooperation, and aggressiveness. The researcher examined the burnout level between these nurses in this report. The study found that the nurses were at a very high level of burnout, which in turn affect their productivity, efficiency, and ability to work. Moreover, these factors affecting their personal life physically, mentally, and emotionally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Telehealth is delivering health care services remote from health-care facilities using telecommunications. Egypt is aiming for Universal Health Coverage; this increases the demand for telehealth in routine health services.Objective: To measure the awareness of telehealth health care workers of primary health care units and to evaluate the effect of an orientation programme on primary health care workers' awareness and acceptance of the application of telehealth.Methodology: This was an intervention study amongst health care workers. A self-administrated valid questionnaire for health care workers was designed, the questionnaire consists of different domains of knowledge in addition to advantages, disadvantages, security and necessity perceptions. Each domain consists of Likert scale questions of 5 points. The questions were scored as the worst answer (1) and the best (5). A total of 109 questionnaires were filled by participants who spent at least 6 months in primary health care units. Then the health care workers attended an orientation programme and the questionnaire was re-filled once more. A total of 104 was recollected. Ethical issues were considered.Results: 50.5% of the health care workers were aware of telehealth; 66.7% of health care workers with master's degree were aware of telehealth in comparison to 31.8% amongst those with a diploma, 64.3% of physicians were aware of telehealth, while 29.6 of nurses were aware [Correction added on 08 April 2021 after first online publication: '9.6%' has been amended to '29.6%' in the preceding sentence]. The score of knowledge and attitude increased from 130 ± 23.538 to 156.49 ± 18.456 after the educational programme.Conclusion: Half of the health care workers were aware of telehealth; the orientation improved the Healthcare Workers' knowledge and attitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Primary Health Centers (PHCs) are intended to be the “backbone” of the Indian public health system. Yet, these do not get utilized as frontline institutions for basic curative care. As we embark on comprehensive primary health care initiatives, it is important to understand people's perceptions on PHCs; and design services that cater to their felt needs. Aim: In this paper, we examine explanations that communities give for the use or bypass of PHCs. From these perspectives, we derive some policy directions for improving basic curative care services at PHCs. Methods: This qualitative study is based on data from 14 Focus Group Discussions in a rural area in Maharashtra in the catchment area of 8 PHCs (total 91 community participants). The discussions were coded and analyzed thematically with the aid of a qualitative software. Results: PHCs were not viewed as first-access points for health care, though these were valued for specific services. The limited use of PHCs was attributed to the lack of availability of drugs/services of perceived relevance to communities; prevalent healing norms that mismatched with PHC services; doctor-patient interactions that were colored with mistrust; and widespread poor opinions of public-sector services in health. Conclusions: Currently, there seems to be little in the design of PHC services- that appeals to the “felt” needs of communities. Thus, the proposed Health and Wellness Centers (HWC) initiative resonates with people's expectations. In addition, staff at the periphery must provide “attentive” care and be prepared to contend with pre-existing poor expectations of care.

Context: India is experiencing a rapid health transition with a rising burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Primary health centers (PHCs) and community health centers (CHCs) are the key health-care delivery institutions providing majority of health-care services to the Indian population. Aim: We assessed the service readiness of PHCs and CHCs to bear the responsibility of providing NCD-related services. Settings and Design: This design was a facility-based quantitative cross-sectional study. Subjects and Methods: The study was conducted on randomly selected 36 PHCs and six CHCs from five taluks of Bengaluru Urban District. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and observation of key items. Descriptive statistics were calculated using SPSS software (SPSS Inc., IBM corp., Chicago, Illinois, United States). Ethical approval was obtained before the data collection. Results: Medical professionals were available only in 47.2% PHCs and 16.6% CHCs. About 94.4% PHCs and all CHCs were reported to have medical equipment. The percentage availability of necessary laboratory services was reported by 44.4% PHCs and 58.3% CHCs. Essential medicines were available only in 55.5% PHCs and 50% CHCs. Guideline materials and training for NCD prevention were given by 8.3% PHCs and 26.6% CHCs. Conclusion: This study found that readiness of PHCs and CHCs for providing NCD-related services was suboptimal. Therefore, primary health-care system strengthening in the form of human resources, functional laboratories, and equipment and supply of medicines is essential at PHCs and CHCs.

Background: A large number of government primary health-care facilities (GPHCFs) in India do not have access to the regular electricity supply. Objectives: To assess the status and change in electricity access, sources, and reliability at primary health centers (PHCs) in India; and to understand the effect of regular electricity supply on health services provision and on workforce availability and retention. Materials and Methods: Secondary analysis of data from the lastest two rounds of district-level household survey (DLHS) in India, conducted in 2007-2008 and 2012-2013. Results: Data of 8619 PHCs from DLHS-3 and 8540 PHCs from DLHS-4 were analyzed. The proportion of PHCs with access to electricity increased from 87% to 91%. However, regular electricity supply was available at only 50% of PHCs in 2012-2013, which was an increase from 36% such PHCs in 2007-2008. PHCs with regular electricity supply provided services to 50% more beneficiaries (deliveries and vaccination) than PHCs without regular or no electricity (P ≤ 0.001). Increased access to regular electricity was associated with improved availability and retention of health staff (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Government policies should aim to ensure access to regular electricity-supply-beyond just connection from grid-at all GPHCFs, including health sub-centers, PHCs, and community health centers. Indicators on electricity access at GPHCFs could be standardized and integrated into regular health and facility-related surveys as well as in the existing dashboards for real-time data collection. Health policy interventions should be informed by regular data collection and analysis. Improving access to regular electricity supply at GPHCFs can contribute to achieve the goals of National Health Policy of India. This will also help to advance universal health coverage in the country. There are lessons from this study, for other low and middle income countries, on improving health service provision at government health care facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The proportion of older people is increasing rapidly, bringing tremendous challenges for health services. Primary health centers (PHCs) play a primary role in providing health care to older people. Developing an age-friendly health service recognition (AFHSR) framework for PHCs in Taiwan and evaluating the reliability and validity of this framework are essential. Methods: Research was conducted in four stages. First, the initial AFHSR framework was developed based on the health promoting hospital standards. Second, experts (N = 33) including public health researchers, hospital and PHC directors, physical environment architects, and nongovernmental organization managers, modified the framework. Third, two rounds of content validity testing were conducted. Fourth, 25 PHC managers applied the AFSHR framework to evaluate performance. Results: The AFHSR framework included two chapters, five standards, and eighteen items. The two chapters were organization management and care services. The five standards were management policy, information intervention and communication, friendly environments, health promotion, and community service and referral. The validity for the framework was 0.96 and for the two chapters was 0.98 and 0.93, respectively. The Cronbach's α of reliability for the whole frameworkwas 0.91 and for the two chapters was 0.85 and 0.81, respectively. Conclusions: The AFHSR framework for PHCs is reliable and valid for primary health care in Taiwan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sound health care system is the prime requisite for the effective health conditions of the people of a nation. But unfortunately the performance of India in this respect is quite disappointing. Evidences showed that studies on public health care delivery system are limited both in Indian as well as in the context of the North Eastern Region. This paper is an attempt to assess the pattern of utilization of primary health care. The study is based on primary data. The study found that there are problems associated with health care delivery system like lack of accessibility to the public health care facilities, shortage of medical equipment, shortage of medicines in government hospitals, lack of infrastructural facilities, low seat capacity and over crowdedness etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the work is to develop a multivariate model that allows analyzing the influence of design thinking on the satisfaction of the users of municipal family health centers (CESFAM), in the city of La Serena, Chile. A relational model was constructed by applying a survey to 361 workers. The analysis of the model used methods of structural equations, based on partial least squares. It was determined that the attitude of the managers, the organizational participation and the formal processes of innovation, explain directly and positively the design thinking in a 64.1%. The efficiency and effectiveness of the processes, and the influence of design thinking in them, manage to explain user satisfaction by 69.7%. In conclusion, the CESFAM should focus on installing the methodology of design thinking, through managers that promote organizational participation, also integrating its users and focusing on the formalization of innovative processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The availability of medicine in health center is associated with medicine management system and should be supported by adequate and sustainable resource. The Implementation of National Health Insurance (NHI) program will increase the need for medicine, to describe the medicine availability at primary health center before and after NHI, to identify the factors affect the availability, to compile solutions to increase the medicine availability at health centers in Keerom District. This research method was a descriptive. The data has been gathered based on observations to primary health center’s document of 2012 to 2015, for 35 indicator medicine, and interview with the medicine manager and the chief of health center, the manager of pharmacy district and the chief of health office at Keerom District. The data analysis was presented by charts, tables, and in narrative description. The results were the availability of medicine at the health centers in Keerom District, before and after NHI program was same, by category of supply was safe, but insufficient as health center’s need. The medicine availability was not appropriate with essential medicine list and illness, the expired and defected medicine still be found, and stock out time increased after NHI. In that period, the factors affect were, the demand process has not been optimal, insuffiecient and uneven distribution, lack of personel and inadequate supporting for drug distribution charges the solution proposed were, to improve knowledge and skill for medicine manager of health center, to plan pharmacist requirements, to set up medicine management information system, to do the integrated medicine planning and to provide the enough cost of distribution.

Background: Diabetes registries monitor the population prevalence and incidence of diabetes, monitor diabetes control program, provide information of quality of care to health service providers, and provide a sampling frame for interventional studies. This study documents the process of establishing a prospective diabetes registry in a primary health-care setting in Puducherry. Methods: This is a facility-based prospective registry conducted in six randomly selected urban health centers in Puducherry, with enrollment of all known patients with diabetes attending chronic disease clinics. Administrative approvals were obtained from Government Health Services. Manuals for training of medical officers, health-care workers, and case report forms were developed. Diabetes registry was prepared using Epi Info software. Results: In the first phase, demographic characteristics, risk factors, complications, coexisting chronic conditions, lifestyle and medical management, and clinical outcomes were recorded. Around 2177 patients with diabetes have been registered in six Primary Health Centres out of a total of 2948 participants seeking care from chronic disease clinic. Registration coverage ranges from 61% to 105% in these centers. Conclusion: This study has documented methodological details, and learning experiences gained while developing a diabetes registry at the primary health care level and the scope for upscaling to a Management Information System for Diabetes and a State-wide Registry. Improvement in patient care through needs assessment and quality assurance in service delivery is an important theme envisioned by this registry.

Introduction: Primary Health Centers (PHCs) are intended to be the "backbone" of the Indian public health system. Yet, these do not get utilized as frontline institutions for basic curative care. As we embark on comprehensive primary health care initiatives, it is important to understand people's perceptions on PHCs; and design services that cater to their felt needs. Aim: In this paper, we examine explanations that communities give for the use or bypass of PHCs. From these perspectives, we derive some policy directions for improving basic curative care services at PHCs. Methods: This qualitative study is based on data from 14 Focus Group Discussions in a rural area in Maharashtra in the catchment area of 8 PHCs (total 91 community participants). The discussions were coded and analyzed thematically with the aid of a qualitative software. Results: PHCs were not viewed as first-access points for health care, though these were valued for specific services. The limited use of PHCs was attributed to the lack of availability of drugs/services of perceived relevance to communities; prevalent healing norms that mismatched with PHC services; doctor-patient interactions that were colored with mistrust; and widespread poor opinions of public-sector services in health. Conclusions: Currently, there seems to be little in the design of PHC services- that appeals to the "felt" needs of communities. Thus, the proposed Health and Wellness Centers (HWC) initiative resonates with people's expectations. In addition, staff at the periphery must provide "attentive" care and be prepared to contend with pre-existing poor expectations of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The health planners in India have visualized primary health centers (PHCs) and community health centers (CHCs) as the key healthcare delivery institutions in rural areas. These centers are supposed to have health manpower, infrastructure, and service delivery as per the Indian public health standards (IPHS) guidelines (2010). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in seven CHCs and 12 PHCs, randomly selected from eight blocks of Shimla District and evaluated in terms of health manpower, infrastructure, and services from September 2011 to August 2012. Data was collected from the selected units using structured data collection instruments designed by the IPHS. Results: The health centers were assessed according to IPHS guidelines. Outpatient department services and referral services were provided in all the centers studied. No specialist doctor was posted at any of CHCs against a sanctioned strength of at least four (surgeon, physician, obstetrician, and pediatrician) per CHC. In 3 (42.8%) CHCs and 8 (75%) PHCs, no pharmacist was posted. Eight (75%) PHCs did not have any staff nurse posted. Three (42.8%) CHCs and 10 (83.3%) PHCs did not have a laboratory technician. In CHCs, separate labor room was available in 6 (85.7%) whereas a separate laboratory was available in all seven. Separate labor room and laboratory were available in four (25%) PHCs. Conclusions: IPHS guidelines are not being followed at PHC and CHC levels of the district. Health manpower shortage is the key bottleneck in service delivery. Political advocacy is needed to ensure sufficient health manpower availability to deliver quality healthcare.

This study compares the implementation of community-based monitoring (CBM) in 45 primary health centers (PHCs) in the pilot phase in Maharashtra with the equal number of randomly selected PHCs not implementing CBM (non-CBM) from the same districts. Information was collected by teams from Community Medicine Departments by visiting selected PHCs. Establishment of monitoring committees and training of medical officers (MOs) had been completed as required but only 36.36% MOs were trained. Only 43.18% MOs received the facility report card. Most of the MOs (90.90%) attended Jansunwai and opined that it had increased community awareness and the barriers between the people and PHC staff were broken. There was no difference in fund utilization and meetings of Rugna Kalyan Samittees. Percentage of Institutional deliveries and women receiving Janani Suraksha Yojana benefits among home deliveries was more in the non-CBM group of PHCs.

Background: Diabetes registries monitor the population prevalence and incidence of diabetes, monitor diabetes control program, provide information of quality of care to health service providers, and provide a sampling frame for interventional studies. This study documents the process of establishing a prospective diabetes registry in a primary health-care setting in Puducherry. Methods: This is a facility-based prospective registry conducted in six randomly selected urban health centers in Puducherry, with enrollment of all known patients with diabetes attending chronic disease clinics. Administrative approvals were obtained from Government Health Services. Manuals for training of medical officers, health-care workers, and case report forms were developed. Diabetes registry was prepared using Epi Info software. Results: In the first phase, demographic characteristics, risk factors, complications, coexisting chronic conditions, lifestyle and medical management, and clinical outcomes were recorded. Around 2177 patients with diabetes have been registered in six Primary Health Centres out of a total of 2948 participants seeking care from chronic disease clinic. Registration coverage ranges from 61% to 105% in these centers. Conclusion: This study has documented methodological details, and learning experiences gained while developing a diabetes registry at the primary health care level and the scope for upscaling to a Management Information System for Diabetes and a State-wide Registry. Improvement in patient care through needs assessment and quality assurance in service delivery is an important theme envisioned by this registry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tamil Nadu has been showing an increasing trend in institutional deliveries since early 1990′s and has now achieved near 100%. Among the institutional deliveries, a change was observed since 2006, wherein primary health centers (PHCs) showed a four-fold increase in deliveries, while other public and private health facilities showed a decline, despite equal access to all categories of health facilities. What led to this increased utilization of PHCs for birthing care? Material and Methods: Policies, documents, and published reports of the Government of Tamil Nadu (GoTN) were reviewed and interviews were conducted with the various stakeholders involved in providing birthing care in the PHCs. This study analyzes the impact of the policies and supply side initiatives and innovations which led to increase utilization of the PHCs for birthing care. Results: Scaling up of 24 × 7 services in all PHCs, upgrading PHCs with good infrastructure, human resources, and women friendly services have helped to boost the image of the PHCs. Pro-women policies like maternity benefit schemes, birth companionship, providing food, and compulsory stay for 48 h following delivery have attracted women towards PHC. Innovative strategies like maternity picnics and use of expected date of delivery (EDD) chart for follow-up have made women choose PHCs, while periodic reviews and support to staff has improved service delivery. Conclusion: Women centered policies, efficient managerial systems, quality care, and innovative marketing of services have together contributed to increased utilization of PHCs for birthing. Other states could explore the possibility of replicating this model to make optimal use the PHC facilities.

This article examines the problems and prospects of health care services in India. Health is the one of the important concept and Primary Health Centre (PHCs), sometimes referred to as public health centres are state owned health care facilities in India. India as a nation has been growing economically at a rapid pace particularly after the advent of New Economic Policy of 1991. However, this paid economic development has not been accompanied by social development particularly health sector development. Health sector has been accorded very low priority in term of allocation of resources. Public expenditure on health is less than 1% of GDP. The Majority of the rural people are poor and there are not able to pay heavy medical fees for private hospitals. They are getting the best medical treatment from primary health centers and their health status will be improved. The main objectives of the study to analyze the importance of health in India, to examine the functions of Primary Health Centers in rural areas and to understand the problems and prospects of Primary Health Centers (PHCs) in rural areas. The present study is basically theoretical background. It is based on secondary data. This study covers problems and prospects of PHCs in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of the study was to assess primary health centers (PHCs) in terms of availability of assured services, facility of primary management of selected cases, surgeries, maternal and newborn health care services, and child health care services with respect to Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS). Data were collected from service providers (medical officerin-charge) at PHCs through well-structured questionnaire developed by referring the IPHS for PHCs prescribed by the Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. The study was conducted at five districts (i.e. Bundi, SawaiMadhopur, Kota, Tonk, and Karauli) of Rajasthan state of India. All 148 PHCs of these five districts were included in the study. Findings depict that more than 90% of the study PHCs showed availability of services such as outpatient department (OPD), antenatal check up (ANC), postnatal check up (PNC), management of reproductive tract infections/sexual transmitted infection (RTI/STI), immunization, and treatment of diarrhea. However, services such as emergency services (24 h), primary management of fractures, surgery of cataract, medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) services, management of low-birth-weight babies, facility for tubectomy and vasectomy, and facility for internal examination for gynecological conditions were poor at PHCs of the study districts, which need to be addressed for further strengthening of primary health centers.

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of diabetes mellitus and hypertension as well as other demographic and clinical characteristics on perceived health status in primary health centers in Oman. Methods: In a cross-sectional retrospective study, 450 patients (aged ≥ 18 years) seen at six primary health centers in Wilayat A′ Seeb in the Muscat region, Oman, were selected. Perceived health status of the physical (PSCC) and mental (MSCC) components of quality-of-life were assessed using the 12-item short form health survey (SF-12). The analyses were performed using univariate statistical techniques. Results: The mean age of the participants was 54 ± 12 years and they were mostly female (62%). The presence of both diabetes mellitus and hypertension was associated with lower physical scores compared to those with diabetes alone (p = 0.001) but only marginally lower than those with hypertension alone (p = 0.066). No significant differences were found across the disease groups in mental scores (P = 0.578). Age was negatively correlated (p < 0.001) but male gender (P < 0.001), married (p < 0.001), literate (p < 0.001) and higher income (p = 0.002) were all associated with higher physical scores. Moreover, longer disease duration was associated with lower physical scores (p < 0.001). With regards to the mental status, male (p = 0.005), marriage (P = 0.017) and higher income (p < 0.001) were associated with higher mental scores. Polypharmacy was associated with lower physical (p < 0.001) and mental (p = 0.005) scores. Conclusions: The presence of both diseases was associated with lower physical scores of perceived health status. Health status was also affected by various demographic and clinical characteristics. However, the results should be interpreted in light of the study′s limitations.

The sub-centers (SCs) are under constant criticism for their inability to deliver quality services due to the nonavailability of adequate infrastructure, manpower and supply of drugs.A cross-sectional study was conducted in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh to assess the availability of physical infrastructure and manpower in the SCs. A total of 34 SCs were selected by multistage and stratified random sampling technique. The data was statistically analyzed by using Microsoft Excel. The deficiency in the availability of health workers male and female were found to be 67.7% and 27.5%, respectively. The residential facility for health workers was available only in 26.4% SCs. Only 20.6% of SCs had stethoscope and B.P apparatus. The physical infrastructure and manpower availability at the SCs needs considerable improvement as per the Indian Public Health Standard (IPHS). Facilities to conduct the normal delivery and 24-hours emergency referral services need to be addressed at the earliest.

In the competitive and globalized scenario, organizations are interested in enhancing employee-organization relationship. Perceived organizational support is one way to understand employee-organization relationship. This study examines the impact of various work-related experiences of healthcare professionals on perceived organizational support. The work experience comprises employees' experience with i) formal support through human resource practices and facility in the workplace and ii) informal social support from supervisors and coworkers in the workplace. A survey is conducted among healthcare professionals including medical officers and staff nurses working in primary health centers in the state of Tamil Nadu. The results of the study proved the positive impact of human resource practices (such as pay and rewards, and job autonomy), social support (such as supervisor support and coworker support), and health facility on perceived organizational support. The career growth opportunities showed a negative impact on perceived organizational support. The supervisor support and coworker support showed higher influence on perceived organizational support than human resource practices and health facility. The study has contributed to the literature on human resource practices and perceived organizational support. The results of the study have provided inputs on how to enhance perceived organizational support of healthcare professionals and about healthcare professionals' perception of human resource practices that could be incorporated while making policies related to public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To probe into effects of interventions on application of antibacterial drugs in outpatient and emergency department of primary health centers，and provide scientific references for rational application and standard administration of antibacterial drugs. METHODS: 100 outpatient and emergency prescriptions of antibacterial drugs each health center (17 health centers and 1 700 prescriptions in total) in Jun. 2015 were extracted and set as pre-intervention group，and other 1 700 prescriptions in Oct. 2015 were set as post-intervention group. The application of antibacterial drugs was retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS: There were no changes in the types of antibacterial drugs before and after intervention，the top 6 antibacterial drugs applied were respectively cephalosporins，penicillins， clindamycin， fluoroquinolone， cephamycins and nitroimidazoles. The application rate of antibacterial drugs for injection was significantly decreased after intervention，the numbers of bigeminy prescriptions，trigeminy prescriptions and irrational prescriptions were decreased as well， with statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The situation of rational drug application was improved after the intervention on the application of antibacterial drugs in outpatient and emergency department of 17 primary health centers in Jiande，which contributed to relieving economic burdens for patients and improving rational drug application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This cross-sectional study conducted among 10 randomly selected PHCs of Ahmedabad district in 2006 revealed existence of vacant staff deficits ranging from 11.3% to 30%; significant staff residing >30 Kms away from the facility; inadequate public transport system for patients; inadequate supplies, POL and functional PHC vehicle; and, bed paucity. The study reveals the necessity for suitable strengthening of these PHCs in line with their envisaged role in health care delivery in line with our national guidelines.

Abstract: Background: While performing the Hajj, hajjis face different risks related to the environment, their behaviors and their health conditions that can result in a variety of diseases. The objective of this study was to determine the pattern of diseases among pilgrims seeking medical services in Mina primary health care centers (PHCCs) during the Hajj season in 1429 (2008). Methods: This is a descriptive study based on the medical records of a random sample of 4136 patients who attended 13 randomly selected Mina PHCCs from 8 to 12 Dhu-Alhijja, 1429 H (6–10 December 2008). Results: The majority of the patients were men (70.7%), and most of the patients were between 45 and 64 years of age (42.8%). One-fifth (20.2%) of the patients suffered from multiple diseases. Respiratory diseases were the most common (60.8%), followed by musculoskeletal (17.6%), skin (15.0%) and gastrointestinal (13.1%) diseases. Diabetes, asthma and hypertension each constituted less than 3% of the total diseases. Respiratory diseases were the most common independent of nationality or the day of visit, while the frequency of the other diseases varied according to nationality and the day of visit. The most frequently prescribed drugs were analgesics, antipyretics, antibiotics and cough syrups. Conclusion: This study describes the pattern of diseases among pilgrims attending Mina PHCCs, which may aid in providing the best possible health care services to pilgrims. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of diabetes mellitus and hypertension as well as other demographic and clinical characteristics on perceived health status in primary health centers in Oman. Methods: In a cross-sectional retrospective study, 450 patients (aged ≥ 18 years) seen at six primary health centers in Wilayat A' Seeb in the Muscat region, Oman, were selected. Perceived health status of the physical (PSCC) and mental (MSCC) components of quality-of-life were assessed using the 12-item short form health survey (SF-12). The analyses were performed using univariate statistical techniques. Results: The mean age of the participants was 54 ± 12 years and they were mostly female (62%). The presence of both diabetes mellitus and hypertension was associated with lower physical scores compared to those with diabetes alone (p = 0.001) but only marginally lower than those with hypertension alone (p = 0.066). No significant differences were found across the disease groups in mental scores (P = 0.578). Age was negatively correlated (p < 0.001) but male gender (P < 0.001), married (p < 0.001), literate (p < 0.001) and higher income (p = 0.002) were all associated with higher physical scores. Moreover, longer disease duration was associated with lower physical scores (p < 0.001). With regards to the mental status, male (p &equals; 0.005), marriage (P &equals; 0.017) and higher income (p < 0.001) were associated with higher mental scores. Polypharmacy was associated with lower physical (p < 0.001) and mental (p &equals; 0.005) scores. Conclusions: The presence of both diseases was associated with lower physical scores of perceived health status. Health status was also affected by various demographic and clinical characteristics. However, the results should be interpreted in light of the study's limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Introduction: To increase access to safe abortion in rural India, the feasibility and acceptability of mifepristone–misoprostol abortion was assessed in a typical government run primary health center (PHC) in Nagpur district, Maharashtra State, that does not offer surgical abortion services and must refer off-site for emergency and backup services. Materials and Methods: Consenting pregnant women (n=149) with ≤56 days amenorrhea seeking terminations received 200 mg mifepristone, and returned 48 h later for 400-μg sublingual misoprostol and 12 days later for abortion confirmation. Surgical backup was conducted at a nearby community health center (CHC). Results: Nearly all women (98.6%) with known outcomes had successful medical abortions, and those who did not (1.4%) were successfully referred to the CHC for surgical backup. Women reported the method''s ease and simplicity as the best features. Conclusion: Medical abortion provision is feasible and acceptable in an Indian rural PHC that does not offer surgical abortion services. This study suggests that introduction of medical abortion at lower levels of the health-care system could increase access to safe abortion in rural India. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]