Functioning of Arogyakiranam programme in Kerala: A qualitative study.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Healthcare Policy
• Pediatric Healthcare

Background:

• The Arogyakiranam program is a state-run health entitlement scheme in Kerala, India.
• It provides healthcare services to children aged 0 to 18 years in government hospitals.
• Limited research exists on the program's effectiveness and operational aspects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct an interim analysis of the Arogyakiranam program's functioning.
• To understand the program's progress from the perspective of various stakeholders.
• To identify areas for improvement to enhance the program's delivery and impact.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study was conducted in three purposively selected districts of Kerala.
• In-depth interviews were performed with diverse stakeholders, including healthcare officials and beneficiary caretakers.
• The study focused on understanding the implementation, fund flow, monitoring, and overall operational aspects of the scheme.

Main Results:

• The program demonstrates a well-structured implementation process, including fund flow and monitoring mechanisms.
• It offers significant financial risk protection to beneficiary families, with zero out-of-pocket expenditure.
• Key challenges identified include low public awareness, need for updated guidelines, funding, and specialist availability.

Conclusions:

• The Arogyakiranam program is highly effective in providing healthcare to children in Kerala.
• It ensures equitable access to a range of health amenities, contributing to universal health coverage.
• Recommendations include enhancing public awareness, updating guidelines, securing adequate funds, and improving infrastructure and training.