Situational Analysis of Healthcare and Medical Diagnostic Testing Facility Availability in Selected Blocks of Muzaffarpur District, Bihar, India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: This study presents a comprehensive assessment of healthcare facilities, focusing on workforce composition, operational dynamics, diagnostic laboratory services, and accessibility considerations. The comparison between government and private healthcare sectors provides insights into service delivery and potential disparities. The study's rationale, objectives, and methodology are explored in the context of the Indian healthcare landscape. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted in Muzaffarpur district, Bihar, targeting selected urban and rural blocks. The study employed geolocation data to analyze accessibility to healthcare facilities. Data collection involved on-site visits, structured questionnaires, and consultation of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)'s framework. The assessment concentrated on the availability of tests offered by the LaBike platform, and workforce compositions were compared. Results: Government healthcare facilities exhibited a balanced distribution of doctors, nurses, and grassroot workers, reflecting comprehensive healthcare provisions. Private facilities, although featuring moderate doctor and nurse presence, lacked grassroot workers. Diagnostic test prevalence was evident, with core tests, such as CBC and blood glucose, available in over 85% of facilities. Government facilities provided tests free of charge, while private facilities showcased a diverse cost spectrum. Proposed interventions received strong support from both sectors, indicating the potential for innovative healthcare solutions. Accessibility analysis: Urban intervention and control sites demonstrated comparable accessibility, with facilities located within 2 km. In rural intervention and control sites, distances varied significantly. Mushahari, a rural intervention site, required participants to travel 6 km to the nearest facility, impacting healthcare access. By contrast, Marwan, a rural control site, featured a shorter distance of 3 km. Conclusion: This study's comprehensive evaluation of healthcare facilities offers valuable insights into workforce dynamics, diagnostic services, and healthcare interventions in the context of government and private sectors. The findings underscore the significance of addressing workforce gaps and promoting equitable access to diagnostics. By informing evidence-based decision-making, this study contributes to the optimization of healthcare service delivery, aiming to enhance healthcare quality and accessibility for all.