Community Participation in Programme Planning for Universal Health Coverage in India: An exploratory study

Abstract

Health can never be adequately protected by health services without the active understanding and involvement of communities whose health is at stake. For attaining Universal Health Coverage, community participation is important, as their active role helps in sustained efforts, collaboration, and a commitment to addressing the underlying social determinants of health, leading to equity in healthcare. Traditional Indian society is cut across by rigid religion and caste lines, and the appropriate role for each caste group has been a serious obstacle in securing complete community participation.

This study employed a quantitative exploratory survey design aimed at understanding public health professionals' perceptions of community participation in healthcare planning. The questionnaire's development included expert consultation and a pilot test to ensure validity and reliability, while the implications of the low response rate on the study's findings was also reported transparently.

This study reflects the opinion on the importance of community participation in healthcare policy and program decisions, identifies the different barriers faced during such vital participation, and recommends measures to enhance community participation for a more equitable healthcare system in the local area.