Overview
- Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) are the re-branded and strengthened form of Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) under Ayushman Bharat.
- They serve as the foundation of India’s primary healthcare system, delivering comprehensive, people-centred care close to communities.
Genesis and Rationale
- Launched to shift India’s health system from selective primary care to Comprehensive Primary Health Care (CPHC).
- Address the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), mental health issues, geriatric care, and preventable illnesses that were earlier under-served at the primary level.
Coverage and Reach
- Implemented through Sub-Health Centres (SHCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), and Urban Primary Health Centres (UPHCs).
- Target of 1.5 lakh AAMs across rural and urban India.
- Act as the first point of contact for individuals within the public health system.
Expanded Package of Services
AAMs provide 12 comprehensive services, including:
- Care in pregnancy and childbirth
- Neonatal and infant health services
- Childhood and adolescent health care
- Family planning and reproductive health
- Management of communicable diseases
- Non-communicable diseases (hypertension, diabetes, cancers – screening & follow-up)
- Mental health services
- Geriatric and palliative care
- Emergency medical care
- Oral, eye, and ENT care
- Health promotion and wellness activities
- Basic diagnostics and essential medicines
Human Resources and Team Structure
- Mid-Level Health Providers (MLHPs) or Community Health Officers (CHOs) lead service delivery.
- Supported by ANMs, ASHAs, MPWs, and visiting medical officers.
- Emphasis on team-based care and continuity of services.
Digital Health Integration
- Integrated with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).
- Use of ABHA ID, telemedicine (e-Sanjeevani), and digital health records.
- Enables referrals, follow-ups, and data-driven health planning.
Role in Public Health Programmes
- Backbone for national programmes such as:
- National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP)
- NPCDCS (NCD screening and management)
- RMNCH+A interventions
- Crucial in pandemic preparedness, surveillance, and early disease detection.
Significance
- Reduces out-of-pocket expenditure by providing free medicines and diagnostics.
- Improves accessibility, equity, and early intervention, especially for rural and vulnerable populations.
- Strengthens India’s progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and SDG-3 (Good Health and Well-being).
Challenges
- Shortage of trained human resources in some regions.
- Infrastructure gaps and uneven quality across states.
- Need for better integration with secondary and tertiary care.
Conclusion
Ayushman Arogya Mandirs represent a paradigm shift in India’s healthcare delivery, transforming primary health centres into comprehensive, wellness-oriented institutions. Their success is central to achieving preventive, promotive, and affordable healthcare for all.
