Publication:

A field survey on provision of health care service in a community clinic of Bangladesh: a case study of Raicho community clinic

Background Community clinics have been restarted in 2009 by government of Bangladesh through a project called “Revitalization of Community Health Care Initiatives in Bangladesh” (RCHCIB) to enhance provision of healthcare services at community level. We have conducted a survey on provision of health care service to recognize the availability and extent of health services provided in a community clinic of Bangladesh.

Methods 25 respondents who usually receive primary health care service from Raicho community clinic situated in Comilla district of Bangladesh were included in the survey.

Results The highest number of respondents was male (52%) and the majority of them were literate (96%).36% of study population were included in no income group, whereas 20% belong to rich population group. 32% people presented with fever (32%) followed by weakness (24%) in the community clinic. 32% respondents went to community clinic for him/her and that was the highest. The highest number of people were referred to private clinic (32%). 70% respondents think that women are receiving maternal service in the clinic. 88% respondents have participated in EPI vaccination program. 80% respondents use contraceptive method and majority used contraceptive pill. 68% people received sufficient medicine, whereas 32% respondents did not receive medication from the clinic. 75% respondents think that during working hours CHCP and HA are available in the clinic. 48% population mentioned corruption is the most possible responsible factor for heath service inequalities at grass-root level.

Conclusions Although standards are lacking in providing services, community clinics have opened a new era in health service of Bangladesh.