Health Frogrammes in India

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What is full form of ASHA? Write down the eligibility criteria for selecting
ASHA in West Bengal. Give a brief outline of role of ASHA in maternal and
new-born care, 2+4+6 (2019 P2)
 2. What do you mean Essential Obstetric Care? What are the services
delivered under Essential Obstetric Care according to RCH II programme?
What is the importance of Maternal Death review? 2+7+3 (2015 P2)

Essential obstetric care (EOC) means professional medical and surgical care for
pregnant women with a special focus on the delivery and immediate postpartum
period.

Maternal Death Review (MDR) as a strategy has been spelt out clearly in the RCH – II
National Programme Implementation Plan document. It is an important strategy to
improve the quality of obstetric care and reduce maternal mortality and morbidity.
The importance of MDR lies in the fact that it provides detailed information on various
factors at facility, district, community, regional and national level that are needed to be
addressed to reduce maternal deaths. Analysis of these deaths can identify the delays
that contribute to maternal deaths at various levels and the information used to adopt
measures to fill the gaps in service. MDR has been conducted as an established
intervention for the last few years by some states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala and West
Bengal.
 What are the health problems of adolescent? Mention the National
Programmes concerning improvement of adolescent health. Outline four
important health educational messages for benefit of an adolescent girl.
3+9 (2014 P2)
Health problems faced by adolescents in India include nutritional deficiencies, mental
health issues, substance abuse, and reproductive health challenges. Several Indian
National Programmes focus on improving adolescent health:

1. Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK): This program aims to address the
health and development needs of adolescents. It includes health education, nutrition
services, and counseling for mental health issues.

2. Adolescent Reproductive and Sexual Health (ARSH): Focused on providing

information and services related to reproductive and sexual health, ARSH aims to
reduce adolescent mortality and morbidity.

3. National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP): To combat substance abuse, NTCP

works towards tobacco control, which is crucial in preventing adolescents from
engaging in harmful habits.

4. School Health Programme: This initiative includes health check-ups, immunizations,

and health education in schools, targeting various health issues faced by adolescents.

Four important health educational messages for the benefit of an adolescent girl in
India could include:

1. Menstrual Health and Hygiene: Educate on menstrual hygiene practices, dispel

myths, and promote the use of sanitary products for better reproductive health.

2. Nutrition Awareness: Emphasize the importance of a balanced diet, including local

and seasonal foods, to address nutritional deficiencies and support overall health and
growth.

3. Mental Well-being: Encourage open conversations about mental health, reducing

stigma, and seeking help when needed. Highlight the importance of stress management
and self-care.

4. Prevention of Early Marriage and Pregnancy: Advocate for delaying marriage and
childbirth, promoting education and career opportunities. Provide information on
contraception and family planning for informed choices.

These messages align with the broader goals of national programs, addressing key
health concerns and empowering adolescent girls with knowledge for a healthier
future.
4. Enumerate different components of ICDS programme. 12 (2013 P2 )
5. Mention the package of services under RCH programme. Outline as to how
the services are provided through different levels of health care facilities
available in a block. 4+8 (2013 P2)
Packages of Service provided under RCH Program:
The Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) program in India offers a range of services
including:
1. Antenatal Care (ANC): Regular check-ups and care during pregnancy.
2. Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD) Services: Providing and promoting the use of
IUCDs for family planning.
3. Postnatal Care (PNC): Care for mothers and newborns after childbirth.
4. Immunization Services: Ensuring timely vaccination for pregnant women, infants, and
children.
5. Family Planning Services: Promoting and providing contraceptive services.
6. Prevention and Management of RTIs/STIs: Addressing reproductive tract infections and
sexually transmitted infections.

These services collectively aim to enhance reproductive and child health, reduce maternal
and child mortality, and improve overall family well-being.

How Services are Provided through Different Levels of Health Care Facilities:

1. Sub-Center Level:
- Basic antenatal care and family planning services are provided.
- Health workers conduct community outreach programs to raise awareness and promote maternal and child
health.

2. Primary Health Center (PHC) Level:

- Comprehensive antenatal and postnatal care services are offered.
- Immunization services for pregnant women and children are provided.
- Family planning services, including counseling, are extended.

3. Community Health Center (CHC) Level:

- More specialized care for high-risk pregnancies is available.
- Skilled attendance at birth is facilitated, ensuring safe deliveries.
- Management of complications during pregnancy and childbirth is emphasized.

4. District Hospital Level:

- Emergency obstetric care is provided for complicated deliveries.
- Specialized services for newborns, including neonatal care, are available.
- Reproductive health education and counseling are offered.

5. Training and Referral Institutions:

- Training of healthcare personnel in maternal and child health practices.
- Referral of complicated cases to higher-level facilities for specialized care.

By structuring the delivery of RCH services across different levels of health care facilities in a block, the program
ensures a continuum of care, ranging from basic services at the community level to more specialized care at higher-
level facilities. This approach enhances accessibility, outreach, and the quality of care for reproductive and child
health.
6. Enumerate the different vector borne diseases, Describe the principle of
vector control programne according to the existing National Programme. 4+8
(2012 P2)
The National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) in India primarily focuses on
diseases transmitted by vectors such as mosquitoes.
Some of the key diseases included in the NVBDCP are…
malaria,
dengue fever,
lymphatic filariasis,
kala-azar (visceral leishmaniasis), and
Japanese encephalitis.

The program aims to prevent, control, and manage these vector-borne diseases through various
strategies, including vector control measures and public health interventions.
7. Enumerate major causes of blindness in India. Outline the strategies
adopted for control blindness under National Programme. 4+8 (2011 P1)
8. How RCH programme differ from CS & SMP? Describe briefly the packages
of service provided under RCH programme. 4+8 (2008 P2)
The acronyms "RCH," "CS," and "SMP" typically refer to Reproductive and
Child Health, Child Survival, and Safe Motherhood Programs, respectively. These
terms are often used in the context of public health initiatives. Let's briefly
describe the differences:

1. Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) Program:

- Focus: RCH programs aim to address a broad spectrum of reproductive health
issues and the well-being of mothers and children.
- Components: These programs encompass family planning, maternal health,
child health, immunization, prevention and management of reproductive tract
infections, and more.
- Emphasis: RCH programs have a comprehensive approach, targeting the
health of women throughout their reproductive years and the well-being of
infants and children.

2. Child Survival (CS) Program:

- Focus: CS programs primarily concentrate on reducing child mortality and
improving the overall survival of children.
- Components: These programs often include immunization, nutrition
interventions, prevention and management of childhood illnesses, and other
strategies to enhance child health and survival.
- Emphasis: CS programs place a specific emphasis on addressing the factors
that contribute to child mortality and morbidity.

3. Safe Motherhood Program (SMP):

- Focus: SMP aims to ensure the well-being of pregnant women and new
mothers, reducing maternal mortality and promoting safe childbirth practices.
- Components: This program includes antenatal care, skilled attendance at
birth, postnatal care, family planning, and efforts to prevent and manage
complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
- Emphasis: SMP focuses on the health and safety of mothers during pregnancy,
delivery, and the postpartum period.
Packages of Service provided under RCH Program:
The Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) program in India offers a range of
services including:
1. Antenatal Care (ANC): Regular check-ups and care during pregnancy.
2. Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD) Services: Providing and promoting
the use of IUCDs for family planning.
3. Postnatal Care (PNC): Care for mothers and newborns after childbirth.
4. Immunization Services: Ensuring timely vaccination for pregnant women,
infants, and children.
5. Family Planning Services: Promoting and providing contraceptive services.
6. Prevention and Management of RTIs/STIs: Addressing reproductive tract
infections and sexually transmitted infections.

These services collectively aim to enhance reproductive and child health, reduce
maternal and child mortality, and improve overall family well-being.
9. Define RCH. Mention the package of services under RCH. How does this
programme differ from the previous ones on MCH in India? 3+6+3 (2006 P2)

Reproductive and Child Health (RCH):

Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) is a comprehensive public health program
that focuses on promoting the health and well-being of women during their
reproductive years and ensuring the survival and optimal development of infants
and children. It encompasses a range of services and interventions to address issues
related to maternal health, child health, family planning, and the overall
reproductive health of the population.

Package of Services under RCH:

1. Antenatal Care (ANC): Regular health check-ups and care during pregnancy.
2. Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD) Services: Provision and promotion of
IUCDs for family planning.
3. Postnatal Care (PNC): Care for mothers and newborns after childbirth.
4. Immunization Services: Ensuring timely vaccination for pregnant women,
infants, and children.
5. Family Planning Services: Promotion and provision of contraceptive services.
6. Prevention and Management of Reproductive Tract Infections (RTIs) and
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Addressing infections affecting the
reproductive system.

Differences from Previous MCH Programs:

1. Comprehensive Approach: RCH adopts a more comprehensive approach by
integrating family planning, maternal health, and child health services into a
unified program. This is a departure from the earlier siloed approach of Maternal
and Child Health (MCH) programs.

2. Inclusion of Reproductive Health: RCH goes beyond traditional MCH programs

by incorporating a broader focus on reproductive health, including family planning
and the prevention and management of reproductive tract infections.

3. Life-Cycle Perspective: RCH considers the entire life cycle, from preconception
to childbirth, infancy, and childhood. This contrasts with earlier MCH programs
that often had a more limited focus on maternal and child health during specific
stages.

The shift from MCH to RCH represents an evolution in public health strategies,
aiming for a more holistic and integrated approach to address the health needs of
women and children across their reproductive lifespan.
 10. Define RCH. What are the packages of services for mothers in this
programme? What are the key components of growth monitoring? 2+7+3
(2005 P2)

Key Components of Growth Monitoring:

1. Regular Weighing: Tracking the weight of infants and children at regular
intervals to monitor their growth patterns.
2. Height Measurement: Measuring the height or length of children to assess
their growth in stature.
3. Plotting on Growth Charts: Placing the obtained measurements on growth
charts to visualize and interpret the child's growth trajectory.
4. Assessment of Developmental Milestones: Monitoring and evaluating the
achievement of developmental milestones to ensure overall well-being.
5. Nutritional Counseling: Providing guidance on proper nutrition and feeding
practices to support healthy growth.
6. Early Detection of Growth Issues: Identifying early signs of growth faltering
or developmental delays to facilitate timely intervention.
7. Parental Education: Educating parents and caregivers about the importance
of nutrition, hygiene, and healthcare practices for promoting optimal growth and
development in children.

These components collectively contribute to the effective monitoring and

promotion of healthy growth in infants and children under the RCH program.
11. Define Reproductive and Child Health. Enumerate the components of
RCH. Describe in short the RCH package of services for pregnant women.
2+2+8 (04 P2)

The components of the Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) program include:

1. Maternal Health Services: Focused on promoting the health and well-being of women during their
reproductive years.

2. Child Health and Nutrition Services: Aimed at ensuring the survival and optimal development of
infants and children.

3. Family Planning Services: Providing contraceptive services to support family planning and
reproductive choices.

4. Prevention and Management of Reproductive Tract Infections (RTIs) and Sexually Transmitted
Infections (STIs): Addressing infections affecting the reproductive system.

5. Adolescent Reproductive Health Services: Catering to the unique health needs of adolescents for a
healthy transition to adulthood.

6. Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases: Strategies to control the spread of infectious
diseases.

7. Promotion of Non-Communicable Diseases: Encouraging healthy lifestyles and addressing non-

communicable health issues.

8. Community Participation: Involving communities in health promotion and service delivery.

These components collectively form a comprehensive approach to address various aspects of

reproductive and child health, promoting overall well-being across different segments of the population.
12. What are the goals of CS and SMP? Write in brief the different components
of RCH programme in our country. 4+8 (2003 P2)

The goals of CS (Child Survival) and SMP (Safe Motherhood Program) are as
follows:

Child Survival (CS):

The primary goal of CS is to reduce child mortality and improve the overall
survival and well-being of children. This involves implementing interventions
and strategies aimed at preventing and managing childhood illnesses, ensuring
adequate nutrition, promoting immunization, and enhancing the overall health
of children to increase their chances of survival.

Safe Motherhood Program (SMP):

The goal of SMP is to ensure the health and well-being of pregnant women and
new mothers. This includes promoting safe childbirth practices, providing
skilled attendance at birth, offering antenatal and postnatal care, and preventing
and managing complications during pregnancy and childbirth. The program
aims to reduce maternal mortality, enhance the health of mothers, and support
safe and healthy pregnancies.
 SHORT NOTES

1. Janani – Shishu Suraksha Karyakram, (2022 P2)

 2. VHND (2021,14 P2)
Village Health and Nutrition Day (VHND):

VHND is a crucial component of India's public health strategy, aimed at delivering

integrated health and nutrition services to communities at the grassroots level.
Typically held at the village or community level, VHND serves as a platform for
providing essential healthcare services and promoting awareness on health and
nutrition.

Key Aspects:
1. Frequency: VHNDs are often organized on a regular basis, typically monthly, to
ensure consistent healthcare access.

2. Services Offered:
- Maternal Health: Antenatal and postnatal care services for pregnant women.
- Child Health: Immunization, growth monitoring, and nutrition support for infants
and children.
- Family Planning: Counseling and provision of contraceptive services.
- Health Education: Awareness programs on hygiene, nutrition, and preventive
health practices.

3. Community Engagement: VHND emphasizes community participation,

encouraging active involvement in health decision-making and fostering a sense of
ownership over healthcare initiatives.

4. Integration of Services: VHNDs are designed to integrate various health and

nutrition services under one umbrella, providing a holistic approach to primary
healthcare.

5. Frontline Workers: Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), Anganwadi

workers, and other healthcare personnel play a crucial role in organizing and
implementing VHNDs.

Objectives:
- Improve maternal and child health outcomes.
- Increase awareness of preventive healthcare practices.
- Enhance community engagement in health-related activities.
- Provide a platform for the delivery of multiple health services in a coordinated
manner.

VHNDs play a pivotal role in strengthening the foundation of primary healthcare in

rural areas, contributing to the overall well-being of communities by addressing key
health and nutrition needs at the grassroots level.
3. Functions of Anganwadi workers. (2007 P2)
1. ICTC should be supported by ART/link ARŤ Centre (2014 P2)

Integrated Counseling and Testing Centre (ICTC) is a crucial component of HIV/AIDS

control programs, and its integration with Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) or linkage to
ART centers is important for comprehensive care. Here's why:

1. HIV Testing and Counseling (ICTC):

- Testing Services: ICTCs provide voluntary and confidential HIV testing services,
contributing to early detection of HIV infection.
- Counseling: They offer pre-test and post-test counseling, addressing concerns and
providing emotional support.

2. Linkage to ART Services:

- Early Identification: ICTCs help in early identification of individuals living with HIV.
- Referral: Those diagnosed with HIV at ICTCs need to be seamlessly referred to ART
centers for further management and treatment.

3. Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Centers:

- Treatment Initiation: ART centers provide antiretroviral medications to suppress the
replication of the HIV virus and manage the progression of the disease.
- Ongoing Care: Individuals diagnosed with HIV receive ongoing medical care,
including regular follow-ups, at ART centers.

4. Continuum of Care:
- Care Continuity: The integration ensures a continuum of care, starting from testing
and diagnosis at ICTCs to ongoing treatment and support at ART centers.
- Comprehensive Approach: It facilitates a comprehensive approach to HIV care,
addressing both prevention (ICTC) and treatment (ART).

5. Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT):

- Coordination: Linkage between ICTCs and ART centers is crucial for pregnant
women living with HIV to receive timely interventions to prevent transmission to their
infants.

6. Data Sharing and Monitoring:

- Data Integration: Linking ICTCs and ART centers allows for the seamless sharing of
patient information and monitoring of treatment outcomes.
- Program Evaluation: Enables effective evaluation of the overall HIV/AIDS control
program.

In summary, supporting the linkage between ICTCs and ART centers is essential for a
holistic and coordinated approach to HIV/AIDS care. It ensures that individuals
diagnosed with HIV receive timely treatment and support, contributing to both individual
health outcomes and the broader goal of HIV prevention and control.
2. Revised ICDS growth chart currently in operation differ from earlier one (11 P2)
 3. ASHA links health care delivery with community. (2010 P2)

ASHA, which stands for Accredited Social Health Activist, plays a crucial role in
linking health care delivery with the community in the context of India's
healthcare system

In summary, ASHA's role in linking health care delivery with the community is
pivotal in creating a more inclusive, accessible, and community-centric
healthcare system. This approach contributes to improved health outcomes,
increased community engagement, and a more effective response to the
health needs of diverse populations.