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.