Awareness and utilization of expanded service packages in health & wellness centres (hwcs): a community-based study in varanasi district

Background: To enhance the reach and quality of primary healthcare in India, the Government has transformed existing Sub-Health Centres and Primary Health Centres into Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs), offering twelve comprehensive healthcare service packages. However, limited empirical evidence exists regarding public awareness and utilization of these services, particularly in underserved regions like Varanasi. Objective: This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and the extent of utilization of expanded healthcare services under AAMs among PM-JAY beneficiaries in the Kashi Vidyapeeth Block of Varanasi district. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using multistage random sampling. Data were collected from 607 respondents through a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were applied to examine awareness and utilization patterns across the twelve service packages. Results: Findings revealed that 72.8% of respondents were aware of AAMs, but only 48.0% were aware of the full range of services provided. Overall service utilization stood at 58.1%, with particularly low uptake in mental health, palliative care, and dental services. No statistically significant association was found between awareness and utilization across all service category. Conclusion: The study highlights a critical gap between awareness and actual utilization of AAM services. To bridge this gap and achieve the goals of Universal Health Coverage, there is an urgent need for targeted community awareness initiatives, enhanced training of frontline health workers, and infrastructural improvements at AAMs.