NHM Highlights Steady Gains in Digital Health Integration & Primary Care Expansion

Greater emphasis has been placed on real-time data systems, improved data quality, and evidence-based decision-making, as the growing use of teleconsultation platforms has improved access to care.

The National Health Mission (NHM) Summit has highlighted findings from the 17th Common Review Mission (CRM), pointing to wider adoption of digital health solutions, measurable improvements in primary healthcare delivery, and stronger system performance across multiple states.

Additional Secretary & Mission Director, NHM, Aradhna Patnaik, stated, “it is essential to ensure that no beneficiary—particularly the most vulnerable—is inconvenienced due to digitalization.” She further emphasised the capacity building of frontline workers and the importance of inclusive service delivery as digital systems expand.

The Common Review Mission, a long-standing evaluation mechanism under the National Health Mission, periodically assesses health system performance through field visits and stakeholder consultations.

This year’s CRM covered 17 States and Union Territories, examining governance, service delivery, and programme implementation, while also identifying replicable best practices aligned with national health priorities and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Digital health solutions have emerged as a key enabler in this transition. Greater emphasis has been placed on real-time data systems, improved data quality, and evidence-based decision-making.

These efforts align with the broader push under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), which has recently crossed a milestone with over one crore individuals opting for faster OPD Registration in April, signalling increased public uptake of digital health services.

Moreover, the findings indicate progress in operationalising Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and expanding comprehensive primary healthcare services. States have reported better outcomes in maternal and child health, as well as more structured screening and management of non-communicable diseases.

The growing use of teleconsultation platforms has further improved access to care, particularly in underserved areas.

At the same time, the review has pointed to persistent operational gaps. Discussions have stressed the need to optimise human resource deployment, ensure uninterrupted availability of essential drugs and diagnostics, and strengthen referral systems.

Enhancing outreach in remote and underserved geographies remains a continuing priority.

States have been encouraged to document and scale successful models, while strengthening collaboration and knowledge exchange across regions.

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