Examining healthcare infrastructure and inequality in rural Punjab: An overview

Abstract

Aim: Healthcare infrastructure played a crucial role in determining the accessibility and quality of healthcare services in rural regions. This research focused in rural Punjab and examined the healthcare infrastructure across its three cultural zones: Majha, Malwa, and Doaba. Despite economic advancements, rural Punjab faced significant disparities in healthcare access, quality, and infrastructure. Methodology: A combination of field research, interviews, and data analysis, the study explored the availability, distribution, and adequacy of healthcare facilities in these regions. Data was collected through stratified simple random sampling method. Major challenges were identified included inadequate healthcare facilities, shortages of medical professionals, poor infrastructure, financial constraints, and social barriers. Results: The study highlighted disparities in healthcare access between Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Non-Scheduled Castes (Non-SCs), with SCs reporting lower regular access to doctors, usual staff behavior, and average infrastructure conditions. Moreover, socioeconomic factors like poverty, low literacy, and transportation issues exacerbated healthcare access. The research also emphasized the potential of digital health technologies, such as telemedicine, to improve healthcare delivery in these underserved areas. The paper recommended a multi-faceted approach to address these issues, including increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, incentivizing medical professionals to work in rural areas, and improving community health services. The findings aimed to provide valuable insights to inform policy reforms and strategies for improving healthcare delivery in rural Punjab and similar regions.