Strengthening Patient Relationship Management and Continuum of Care through Haat Bazar Scheme in Chhattisgarh

Abstract

The Haat Bazar Scheme in Chhattisgarh addresses significant healthcare challenges faced by the state’s rural and tribal populations. Initiated to improve healthcare accessibility, the scheme leverages weekly local markets (haat bazars) to provide essential medical services through temporary camps. These markets, integral to rural life, facilitate outreach to populations with limited healthcare access. The initiative integrates patient relationship management (PRM) and continuum of care principles, ensuring consistent and comprehensive healthcare delivery. Services include consultations, medications, diagnostic services, and health education, significantly enhancing healthcare reach and outcomes. The scheme has served 1,519,318 beneficiaries across 3,260 clinics, with 5,873 individuals referred to higher-level healthcare centers. The average patient visits per Haat Bazar Clinic (HBC) increased from 26 to 38 over one fiscal year and further to 63 during the period from April 2022 to June 2022. District-wise performance showed variability, with Bemetara reporting the highest average of 127 visits per HBC and Balrampur the lowest at 16. Digital technology integration, including telemedicine and digital health records, has connected rural patients with specialists, improved diagnostic accuracy, and streamlined patient information management. The success of the Haat Bazar scheme is attributed to its community-centered approach, strategic use of digital technology, and focus on health education, which collectively strengthen PRM and ensure a continuum of care. The comprehensive documentation and continuous evaluation of the scheme provide insights for replicating this innovative healthcare delivery model in other regions facing similar challenges, thereby promoting universal health coverage. (198 words)