Door-to-door health camps versus traditional health camps in rural areas of Himachal Pradesh – A comparative analysis

Abstract

Background: Health camps are effective medical intervention, especially in inaccessible terrains. However, because of age, health, and COVID-19 fear, many patients avoid visiting these camps because of crowding. Door-to-door health camps could be a solution to this. National Medical Commission has also introduced early clinical exposure and family adoption for medical undergraduate students. Aim and Objectives: The authors had planned to conduct this research to study the advantage of door-to-door health camps involving medical undergraduate students as camp team members as compared to traditional health camps regarding patient satisfaction and student satisfaction. Material and Methods: This study was done in rural hilly areas of Himachal Pradesh. There were 8 traditional health camps and 8 door-to-door health camps also involving medical undergraduate students organized between August 2022 and November 2022. These camps were analyzed for patients’ satisfaction and students’ satisfaction. Results: Patient satisfaction was much higher in door-to-door camps as compared to traditional health camps. More patients attending door-to-door camps visited our hospital for follow-up. Students were also satisfied participating in door-to-door camps. It also improved their interest in studying medicine. Conclusion: Door-to-door health camps are more beneficial for patients, especially in hilly inaccessible terrain. Involving students in these camps improves their interest in studying medicine and can be beneficial.