ABSTRACT
Background
The healthcare delivery system in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has undergone substantial transformation over the past decade through expansion of healthcare infrastructure, implementation of national health programmes, strengthening of medical education, and adoption of universal health coverage initiatives. Despite these advances, geographical constraints, workforce shortages, and disparities in healthcare accessibility continue to influence health service delivery. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the organization, infrastructure, major health initiatives, and emerging challenges of the healthcare delivery system in Kashmir.
Main Findings
The healthcare delivery system in Kashmir follows a three-tier structure comprising primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare institutions that provide preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative services. Recent reforms, including Ayushman Bharat–Health and Wellness Centres, Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, expansion of medical colleges, establishment of All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), free drug and diagnostic services, and modernization of healthcare infrastructure have considerably improved healthcare accessibility and service utilization. Nevertheless, shortages of specialist healthcare professionals, difficult geographical terrain, inequitable distribution of health resources, and increasing disease burden remain important challenges affecting health system performance.
Conclusions
Kashmir has achieved remarkable progress in strengthening its healthcare delivery system through sustained governmental investment and implementation of national health programmes. However, continued efforts are required to strengthen primary healthcare, improve human resource availability, enhance referral systems, and reduce geographical inequities to ensure equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for the entire population.