Diabetic Care through Public–Private Partnership in Rural Set-up: A Case Study of Primary Health Centre, Valam, Mehsana

Abstract

Introduction: Prevalence of diabetes is increasing rapidly in across the world and India is no exception. In the year 2000, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that India had 32 million diabetic. One of the proven strategies to improve access to healthcare, especially in the areas that are underserved or un-served through public healthcare services, is Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs). Methodology: The case study is based on the observation of the facilities and service delivery, desk review of service delivery statistics of the PHC, in-depth interviews with stakeholders. Findings: It was observed that the Valam Primary health Centre (PHC) is an excellent example of locally-initiated, village-level PPP model to cater to rural population. It was quite evident from the available records that PHC is having adequate supply of strips and glucometer to perform the investigation to monitor the blood sugar level of diabetic or suspected cases, which was not available even in other PHCs of the same block. Round the clock availability of the diagnostic equipment reflects the commitment of the NGO for providing the optimal diabetes investigation care to the residents in and around Valam PHC level. Recommendation: The Valam Diabetic Care Model is an excellent example of locally-initiated PPP model and this kind of model should be encouraged in resource constrain areas.