In strengthening the public health system in the state, HSTP worked closely with the Government of Odisha on various strategic initiatives in 2023. One of the pivotal contributions was the development of the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY) Claim Adjudication Manual, in collaboration with the State Health Assurance Society and the Department of Health and Family Welfare. This manual is aimed at facilitating an efficient and transparent claim adjudication process, crucial for the effective allocation of resources, reducing the risk of inappropriate payments, and ensuring the financial stability of the healthcare system. It will play a fundamental role in building trust among beneficiaries and providers, thereby facilitating access to quality care and advancing the goals of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Additionally, efforts were directed towards enhancing the competencies of primary healthcare providers such as Pharmacists, Technologists, Medical Officers, and Community Health Officers. Training manuals specifically designed for In-Service Pharmacists and Medical Laboratory Technologists in Primary Healthcare Settings were published and disseminated extensively, bridging a significant gap in the healthcare workforce, and paving the way for a model for future scaling of interventions. In collaboration with the Directorate of Nursing, HSTP has contextualised the Competency Assessment Framework to the state of Odisha.
The implementation of "Creating Incredible Performances," a leadership development program, facilitated the enhancement of mid-level health officials' performance within the public sector. Furthermore, a collaboration with the Asian Institute of Public Health (AIPH) University aimed at improving access to medicines in public health facilities through a comprehensive study. This study, conducted across four selected districts, employed a mixed-method approach to identify factors contributing to higher out-of-pocket expenses for patients. It also looked at best practices from the medical corporations in other states. The analysis involved gathering data from diverse stakeholders, enabling a comprehensive assessment of essential medicine availability and prescription practices within the state. Subsequent recommendations were formulated and implemented by Odisha State Medical Corporation Limited and the Department of Health to enhance access to essential medicines in the state.
At the State Level Brainstorming Workshop on 'One Health' in Odisha, HSTP’s insights on the strategy for the state action plan on 'One Health' covering strengthening surveillance systems through real-time data sharing to addressing the silent epidemic of antimicrobial resistance, demonstrating HSTP’s commitment to innovative, comprehensive solutions to health systems strengthening, were much appreciated. As the technical partner to the Department of Health Odisha, HSTP will be supporting the state’s efforts to create actionable plans for ‘One Health’ at the state and district levels.
