An integrated Emergency Care System (ECS) is critical for delivering time-sensitive healthcare services for acute illnesses and injuries across all age groups. The 72nd World Health Assembly has underscored the necessity of integrated emergency systems for achieving universal health coverage, particularly to address the needs of acutely ill and injured individuals. In India, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 62% of deaths, followed by communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional diseases (CMNNDs) at 27%, and injuries at 11%. Most of these deaths are preceded by emergencies, highlighting the importance of a robust ECS. In 2023, India reported 461,312 road traffic crashes, resulting in 443,366 injuries and 168,491 deaths, with young adults aged 18 to 45 years constituting 66.5% of the total fatalities.

In Chhattisgarh, the disease burden from communicable diseases, maternal, and newborn conditions is 38%, NCDs constitute 50%, and injuries 12%. The state recorded 13,476 road traffic crashes leading to 6166 deaths, averaging 17 deaths per day, with a high fatality rate of 43.9 deaths per 100 crashes, surpassing the national average of 36.5.

The 'Champions of Change for Chhattisgarh' initiative aims to fortify the ECS by building a cadre of skilled healthcare professionals at the district level. These champions will enhance emergency response at district hospitals, build capacities at Community Health Centers (CHCs) and Primary Health Centers (PHCs), and empower communities and first responders. The initiative follows the WHO Emergency Care System framework, which includes human resources, equipment, and information technology extending from care at the scene, during transportation, and at healthcare facilities.

Chhattisgarh's healthcare infrastructure includes 769 PHCs, 52 Urban PHCs, 170 CHCs, 4 Urban CHCs, 18 Civil hospitals, 24 District hospitals, and 10 Medical colleges. PHCs provide first aid, CHCs and District hospitals offer basic emergency care, and Medical colleges serve as tertiary centers for specialized emergency services. In the first phase of the initiative, 41 healthcare professionals from 11 district hospitals participated, representing Dhamtari, Durg, Gariyaband, Janjgir-Champa, Kabirdham, Koria, Mungeli, Narayanpur, Raigarh, Sukma, and Surajpur.