Structural and organizational features of school health schemes in Delhi

The magnitude of work and existence of multiple agencies makes the task of providing school health services to all pupils of the State of Delhi with uniform standards, a very complex job. The present article looks at the matter from the provider's end, illustrates the structural and organizational features of various school health schemes in Delhi and tries to come out with some suggestions for improvement. This study was based on qualitative research methods. Besides the three major agencies involved i.e. Govt. of Delhi, MCD and NDMC, a host of private and other agencies were also contributing significantly in covering a total of approx. 3700 schools with around 19 lakh children. Organizational and other features of school health services varied widely according to the providing agency. There is a need for integration between various school health schemes in Delhi. Since MCD school health scheme appeared to be better organized, its features can be adopted while developing uniform standards. About the components of services, promotive inputs and follow-up of health appraisals are the areas that need to be strengthened. Proper maintenance of cumulative health records, central documentation and timely dissemination of reports are also equally important and need strengthening.