From the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to the vast network of public health facilities, India is committed to ensuring high standards of sanitation and hygiene. The groundbreaking ‘Kayakalp’ initiative was started by the government on May 15, 2015. This ongoing program recognises and incentivises the excellent performance of public healthcare facilities in adhering to cleanliness, hygiene, and infection control protocols, highlighting the nation’s dedication to enhancing public health services.
Recognising Excellence: The 5th National Kayakalp Awards
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare recently conferred the 5th National Kayakalp Awards. The awards were granted to the Public and Private Health Facilities who demonstrated high standards of Sanitation and Hygiene. The institutions recognised include District Hospitals, Sub-divisional hospitals, Community Health Centres, Primary Health Centres and Health & Wellness Centres. The award-winning facilities have demonstrated great strides in maintaining cleanliness, hygiene and infection control, thus playing a vital role in promoting public health.
The Kayakalp Initiative: Fostering a Culture of Cleanliness
The objective of the Kayakalp initiative is to both incentivise and promote cleanliness, hygiene, and strict infection control practices in public healthcare facilities. The program aims to instil a culture of continuous assessment and peer review of performance related to these key areas. Moreover, it aspires to create and share sustainable practices leading to improved cleanliness in public health facilities and ultimately contributing to positive health outcomes.
Mera Aspataal: Improving Patient Satisfaction
As part of the Kayakalp initiative, the Mera Aspataal programme was launched. It was designed to gauge patient reactions to hospital services and utilise this feedback in making corrective measures to improve the quality of patient care. Mera Aspataal serves as a bridge between patients and healthcare providers, ensuring that hospitals meet the needs and expectations of the communities they serve.
Swachh SwasthSarvatra (SSS): Strides Towards Sanitation
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has also collaborated with the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation to expand the scope of its public health initiatives. Under the SSS programme, one Community Health Centre (CHC) situated within an Open Defecation Free block receives a one-time grant of Rs. 10.00 lakhs under the National Health Mission. The grant allows for necessary improvements so that the CHC meets the standards set by the Kayakalp initiative. This innovative approach aligns the goals of public health with those of environmental sanitation, making strides towards a healthier and more sanitary India.
These initiatives under the Kayakalp banner reflect the government’s commitment to improving public health in India. Through recognising, incentivising, and promoting cleanliness and hygiene in healthcare facilities, the move aims to ensure that every citizen has access to clean and safe healthcare.
Last Modified: February 10, 2024