‘Neighbourhood Of Care’ Can Transform Rural Health

A potentially life-altering concept named ‘Neighbourhood of Care’ is aiming to set a new standard in healthcare by viewing community involvement as central to health and wellbeing. 

This innovative model sees communities not merely as recipients of care but as active caregivers, reshaping the traditional healthcare paradigm with a broader, more inclusive approach.

At its core, the ‘Neighbourhood of Care’ model consists of three essential components: a supportive network, a service platform, and a knowledge system. These elements work together to create a seamless continuum of care. From receiving and seeking to providing, managing, and promoting equitable healthcare, this approach is designed to address the unique needs of rural areas. By incorporating these elements, the model aims to foster healthier lives and improve overall well-being in communities with limited resources. 

The significance of this model extends to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3): good health and well-being. It also contributes to the realisation of several other SDGs by integrating home, community, and health facilities into everyday healthcare infrastructure.

This approach empowers individuals to care for themselves, their families, their communities, and the environment. Home-based care plays a pivotal role, offering support for self-care and enabling families to take on care giving roles. This model allows families to develop personalised care plans and pathways tailored to their specific stages of life and health needs.

According to the ‘State of Healthcare in Rural India 2024’ report by the Development Intelligence Unit and Transform Rural India, home-based care is crucial for both elderly and non-elderly patients. The report highlights that 73 percent of elderly individuals require care, yet only 3 percent have chosen paid external services. A significant 95.7 percent of families prefer relying on family caregivers. This preference underscores the model's effectiveness in leveraging familial support and local resources. 

The Neighbourhood of Care concept asserts that healthcare challenges cannot be resolved solely through medical or clinical interventions.

Instead, it promotes a holistic, personalised approach that considers social and ecological factors. By combining the preferences, interests, and goals of individuals, families, and communities, this model offers a comprehensive solution to health issues. 

The report, which surveyed 21 states and 5,389 households, provides a detailed overview of how this model is reshaping healthcare in rural India. It illustrates the potential of community-driven care in addressing health disparities and enhancing overall quality of life.