International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

Evaluating Public Health Infrastructure and Performance of Healthcare Systems in ‘High-Priority Districts’ of North-East India since 2023

Public health infrastructure forms the backbone of an effective healthcare system and plays a crucial role in improving population health outcomes. In India, regional disparities in healthcare access remain a persistent challenge, particularly in geographically remote and socio-economically disadvantaged regions. The North-Eastern states of India present a unique case due to their diverse ethnic composition, difficult terrain, and limited institutional capacity for healthcare delivery. Public health infrastructure is crucial for improving health outcomes, but North-East India has lagged behind due to remoteness and low resources. This study assesses healthcare system development in North-East high-priority districts since 2023. Using government and international data, it finds that initiatives (National Health Mission, Ayushman Bharat, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission) have led to more primary care facilities (e.g. PHCs, Health & Wellness Centres) and better maternal/child health indicators. Institutional deliveries increased from 68% to 82% and infant mortality fell. Nevertheless, shortages of doctors and equipment persist in rural areas. Strengthening governance, health workforce incentives, and digital health are recommended to build on recent gains. This study evaluates the development of public health infrastructure and the performance of healthcare systems in High Priority Districts of North-East India since 2023. The research examines infrastructure development, availability of healthcare personnel, accessibility of medical services, and implementation of national health programs. The study employs a qualitative research design combined with secondary data analysis derived from government reports, policy documents, and scholarly literature.