Swasthya Kendra

A Swasthya Kendra, also known as a Health and Wellness Centre (HWC), is a government initiative under the Ayushman Bharat scheme aimed at transforming India’s primary healthcare system. These centers are developed by upgrading existing sub-centers and primary health centers (PHCs), bringing essential health services closer to communities, especially in rural and underserved urban areas. They represent a shift from illness-based care to wellness-focused care.

Swasthya Kendras offer comprehensive primary services such as maternal and child healthcare, immunization, screening for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), mental health support, and basic emergency care. Staffed by Community Health Officers (CHOs), Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), and Multi-Purpose Workers (MPWs), they serve as the frontline of India’s public health infrastructure.

By delivering preventive, promotive, and curative services under one roof, Swasthya Kendras play a pivotal role in strengthening healthcare accessibility and equity. Their integration into local communities helps reduce the patient load on secondary and tertiary hospitals, making healthcare more efficient and inclusive.