Ayushman Bharat - Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWC)

✦Key Features

• 1.73 lakh Health and Wellness Centres functional across India (2025)
• 12 service packages: reproductive/maternal/child health, communicable diseases, NCDs, mental health, ENT, ophthalmology, oral health, palliative care, trauma, emergency
• Community Health Officers (CHOs): BAMS/BSc Nursing graduates trained as mid-level providers
• Free drugs: 105+ essential medicines available free at HWCs
• Free diagnostics: 63+ essential tests available free
• Yoga and wellness activities; community participation through Mahila Arogya Samiti
• Telemedicine (eSanjeevani) integrated — 25+ crore teleconsultations completed

✓Eligibility Criteria

• All Indian citizens
• Universal access to primary healthcare
• Special focus on vulnerable populations
• No income or demographic restrictions

★Benefits

• Free consultation and basic medicines
• Preventive healthcare services
• Maternal and child health services
• Non-communicable disease management
• Mental health and wellness counseling

▶Application Process

• Visit nearest Health and Wellness Centre
• Register with basic details
• Consult with healthcare provider
• Access preventive and curative services
• Follow-up as per medical advice

₹ Budget Allocation

13441

Funding Ratio (Centre:State): 60:40 for General Category States; 90:10 for NE and Himalayan States; 100% for UTs without legislature

Historical Context

AB-HWC was launched in 2018 based on the recommendations of the National Health Policy (NHP) 2017. It evolved by upgrading existing Sub-Centres (SCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) which previously provided only selective primary care (maternal and child health). It represents a shift from 'selective' to 'comprehensive' primary health care (CPHC).