Union Health Secretary unveils “Health Dynamics of India 2022-23” edition

New Delhi: The Union Health Secretary, Apurva Chandra, has officially released the latest edition of “Health Dynamics of India (Infrastructure and Human Resources) 2022-23,” an essential annual publication that provides detailed insights into India’s healthcare infrastructure and human resources. Previously known as “Rural Health Statistics,” this document has been a key resource since 1992.

Apurva Chandra emphasized the significance of the report, noting that it serves as a valuable tool for policymakers, healthcare planners, and administrators. “The annual publication is a valuable document furnishing much-needed information on manpower and infrastructure within NHM, helpful in policy-making, improving processes and problem-solving,” he said. The report includes comprehensive cross-state analyses that highlight both the availability and deficiencies in healthcare resources, thus aiding in prioritizing state needs and formulating targeted strategies.

The report also underscores the importance of integrating the Health Management Information System (HMIS) Portal with the Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) and other Ministry portals. This integration is aimed at reducing the workload on health functionaries and ensuring timely and accurate data uploads and analyses.

Apurva Chandra was joined at the event by Aradhana Patnaik, Additional Secretary and Mission Director (NHM), and other senior officials from the Union Health Ministry.

The “Health Dynamics of India” publication is divided into two main parts. The first part provides an overview of India’s healthcare system through State and Union Territory profiles, using maps and charts for clarity. The second part is more detailed, encompassing nine sections that offer in-depth data on health facilities, manpower, and demographic indicators.

According to the latest data, as of March 31, 2023, India has a total of 169,615 Sub-Centres (SCs), 31,882 Primary Health Centres (PHCs), 6,359 Community Health Centres (CHCs), 1,340 Sub-Divisional/District Hospitals (SDHs), 714 District Hospitals (DHs), and 362 Medical Colleges (MCs). These facilities are supported by a substantial workforce, including 239,911 health workers, 40,583 doctors at PHCs, 26,280 specialists at CHCs, and 45,027 doctors and specialists at SDHs and DHs.

The publication also provides a comparative analysis of healthcare infrastructure and manpower between 2005 and 2023 and includes district-wise data to assist in targeted policy planning. It focuses on rural, urban, and tribal areas, categorizes states and Union Territories based on healthcare performance, and highlights key findings for quick reference.

The “Health Dynamics of India (Infrastructure and Human Resources) 2022-23” report is available on the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare’s website. This resource continues to be vital for assessing healthcare needs and improving the delivery and effectiveness of health services across the country.