A Study on Community needs, perceptions and demand regarding the use of the health services during COVID-19 pandemic in district Kathua, J and K.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on essential health services is a source of great concern. Health gains made during the last 2-3 decades have been halted due to shifting of resources to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Aim and Objective: This study was conducted to identify community needs, demands, and perceptions regarding the effectiveness of using health services during the pandemic. Methodology: This was a qualitative study which was conducted through focus group discussions. The participants comprised of three groups community leaders, healthcare providers, and field workers. Discussion among the participants was conducted using the standardized World Health Organization community assessment tool. Result: In our study, it was reported that most of the essential health services were disrupted due to COVID-19 pandemic. The barriers to accessing essential health services have been exacerbated and the provision of community-based services is effected due to this. In regard to COVID-19 vaccination also, there remain individuals who are reluctant to be vaccinated. Conclusion: Our study shows that the community faced barriers in accessing and using health services during the pandemic. To ensure the public's access to health services and strengthen healthcare preparedness strategies like health budget allocation, manpower, infrastructure, trainings, integration with primary healthcare, etc., need to be carried out during and after the pandemic. Thus, participation and inter-sectoral coordination across levels are required to overcome these barriers.