The Power of Convergence: Building a Shared Cross-Sectoral Vision for Primary Healthcare in India

Session recording will be available soon.
Session Date: April 23, 2021

Session Description: India is on the path to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through the flagship national Ayushman Bharat program wherein existing health facilities at primary level settings are being transformed into Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs) to provide comprehensive Primary Health Care (PHC) and focus on preventive and promotive healthcare. This bold vision requires committed efforts from stakeholders across sectors to collaborate and make accessible and quality PHC a reality in India. Concerted efforts are being made by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) for cross-sectoral convergence across other ministries and departments, including ministries of education, sports and youth affairs, urban planning etc presenting a unique case from India on power of the collective to achieve PHC. USAID’s health system strengthening project NISHTHA, implemented by Jhpiego, provides technical support to MoHFW for Ayushman Bharat HWCs initiative. NISHTHA is hosting a panel to explore extensive learnings on cross-sectoral engagement broadly classified under five sub-themes: (1) India’s vision towards strengthening comprehensive PHC (2) Convergence with Fit India Mission for wellness (3) Collaborating with Eat Right Movement (4) Convergence with School Health and Wellness Program (5) Convergence experiences with Urban Local Bodies. The 90 minute panel will include experts and Indian government officials from various ministries/departments who will discuss about intersectoral convergence with India’s flagship Ayushman Bharat initiative for strengthening the delivery of comprehensive PHC.