Health system preparedness in noncommunicable diseases: Findings from two states Odisha and Kerala in India

INTRODUCTION: “Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the raging reality of today's world and have moved up the priority list of most countries worldwide including India. The government of India has launched programs such as National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular disease, and Stroke, but little is known about preparedness of health system to address NCDs. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted in the states of Odisha and Kerala to document the government stakeholder perspectives of health system preparedness for NCDs. RESULTS: The study revealed that both the states have a NCD preparedness structure but need strengthening at various levels. The present human resource is inadequate, over-burdened, and requires specific skills. The lack of workforce adversely affects the service delivery mechanism. The study highlighted that there is a gap in the timely release of funds and also lack of evidence-based application if the information that is made available. CONCLUSION: There is a clear need to fill the gaps and strengthen the identified areas at various levels to address the increasing NCD burden. There is also a need to more in-depth and large-scale studies on such issues which act as external monitoring mechanisms thereby assisting the policy makers and program managers in with relevant and scientific evidence to bring reforms in the health system.