Publication:

Morbidity profile and healthcare utilization among beneficiaries of Swasthya Rakshan programme siddha medical camps in rural area: a retrospective observational study

Background Community outreach medical camps play an important role in improving access to healthcare services in rural and underserved populations. Siddha medical camps conducted under the Swasthya Rakshan Program aim to extend traditional healthcare services and promote awareness of the Siddha system of medicine. The present study evaluated the beneficiary profile and morbidity pattern of patients attending Siddha medical camps conducted between 2022 and 2025.

Methods A Retrospective observational study was conducted based on the Siddha medical camps organized by Siddha Medical Plants Garden and Research Centre, Mettur, between December 2022 and March 2025. Basic demographic and clinical data of beneficiaries were recorded during consultation. Patients were categorized based on gender, age group and type of visit (new or follow-up). Disease distribution was analysed system-wise according to Siddha clinical classification. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to assess differences in demographic characteristics.

Results A total of 1,405 beneficiaries attended the Siddha medical camps, including 659 (46.9%) new cases and 746 (53.1%) follow-up cases. Of these, 893 (63.6%) were adults and 512 (36.4%) were children. Among adults, females greatly outnumbered males (68.1% vs. 31.9%; χ²=116.8, p<0.001), while the gender ratio among children was similar. The most common morbidities were musculoskeletal disorders, followed by respiratory, skin and gastrointestinal issues.

Conclusions Siddha medical camps serve as an effective community outreach strategy for delivering traditional healthcare services. The findings highlight the importance of strengthening such programs to improve accessibility and promote integrative healthcare in rural communities.