Assessment of NPHCE in Selected Health and Wellness Centres in Gurugram, Haryana

Abstract

Background: Elderly people, aged 60 years and above, form a vital component of our population. The ageing process is associated with biological variations and situational changes. NPHCE was launched to address healthcare needs of elderly and deliver preventive, promotive, and curative services. Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) offer comprehensive geriatric care, but factors hinder service utilization. Objective: To assess availability, utilization pattern, and factors determining uptake of NPHCE services at HWCs, and ascertain satisfaction amongst geriatric beneficiaries. Methodology: A cross-sectional study from November 2023 to October 2024 in 4 Gurugram HWCs. Multistage random sampling selected one HWC per block, and 50 elderly patients (≥60 years) per HWC (total 200) were recruited. Results: Female majority (62%), aged 60-70 years (79.5%), with chronic illnesses (hypertension 59.5%, diabetes 29.5%). HWCs had adequate basic infrastructure but complete absence of specialized geriatric devices. Patient satisfaction was highest for confidentiality/privacy (72.5%) and timings (72%), but lowest for medicine availability (52.5% dissatisfied) and diagnostic facilities (42.5% dissatisfied). Waiting time exceeded 10 minutes for registration in 20% and for consultation in 27.5%. Conclusion: While HWCs demonstrated satisfactory basic infrastructure, critical gaps in geriatric-specific equipment persist—including complete absence of assistive devices. Accessibility guides patient choices, but medicine and diagnostic deficiencies limit comprehensive care. Satisfaction showed positive provider interactions contrasted against systemic deficiencies.