A STUDY TO ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE REGARDING SELECTED NATIONAL HEALTH SCHEMES AMONG ADULTS IN SELECTED AREAS OF PUNE CITY

Abstract

India, with its extensive population and diverse healthcare demands, has implemented numerous national health programs aimed at delivering accessible, affordable, and high-quality healthcare. These programs, driven by the government’s commitment to public health, strive to address various health issues and improve outcomes across the country. Key initiatives include the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), National Health Mission (NHM), and Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA).

This research investigates the knowledge of selected national health schemes among adults in selected areas of Pune city. The study's objectives include assessing the level of knowledge and associating findings with demographic variables. Using a quantitative, non-experimental exploratory approach, the research was conducted among 200 adults using a non-probability purposive sampling technique. The research setting was selected areas of Pune city, focusing on adults aged 18 years and above who could understand Marathi or English. A structured knowledge questionnaire was the primary tool for data collection, validated through expert review and reliability testing using the test-retest method.

The findings revealed that the majority of respondents (62.5%) had good knowledge of national health schemes, while 38.5% had average knowledge, and no respondents exhibited poor knowledge. Demographic analysis showed that age significantly influenced knowledge levels, while other factors such as gender, education, and marital status did not have a statistically significant association. The study highlights a need for targeted awareness programs to address gaps in understanding and ensure more equitable access to healthcare knowledge and services.

The study underscores the importance of continuous evaluation and public awareness initiatives to ensure effective healthcare delivery. By understanding and addressing barriers to healthcare knowledge, policymakers can make informed decisions to optimize resource allocation and enhance program effectiveness. This research contributes valuable insights into public awareness of national health schemes, essential for achieving universal health coverage and improving health outcomes in India.