Publication:

A perspicuous initiative in the state under the ambit of Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram: Nayi Disha Kendra

Under Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK), adolescent friendly health centers (AFHC) entail a whole gamut of clinical, counseling and referral services on diverse adolescent health issues ranging from sexual and reproductive health to nutrition, substance abuse, injuries, violence, non-communicable diseases and mental health issues at various level of health care facilities. These facilities are also providing de-addiction services; hence State proposed the name of these facilities as Nayi Disha Kendra (NDK). A total of 99 facilities are notified as NDKs in the state. These are established at medical college/ zonal hospital/ district hospital/ community health centre. NDK is established in a separate room. In case of non-availability of separate room, the available room is sub-divided to create space. The physical appearance of NDK is important for creating an environment where beneficiaries feel comfortable. A typical health setup might not attract adolescents; a simple makeover is done with wall paint, colorful furniture, bright posters, IEC with appropriate health messages etc. Basic amenities like sitting arrangement clean drinking water and clean toilets are made available for the adolescents visiting the Kendra. All the clinical, counselling and referral services are provided by the trained staff of NDK. The timings of NDK are 9:30 to 4:00 pm (Monday to Saturday).