Evaluation of Healthy Life Centres through SWOT Analysis

Abstract

Objective: This article aims to examine the role of Healthy Life Centres (HLCs) in primary preventive healthcare services using a SWOT analysis. The strengths and weaknesses of HLCs, along with their opportunities and threats, are identified.

Method: The study presents a conceptual assessment based on legislation, national guidelines, policy documents and current literature relating to HLCs. The literature review covers studies published since 2010 in particular. Findings are structured under the headings of strengths and weaknesses defining the internal environment, and opportunities and threats defining the external environment.

Findings: Strengths include comprehensive service provision, a preventive approach and early diagnosis, community-based work, individual-centred and participatory counselling, and free, neighbourhood-based structures that increase access for disadvantaged groups. Collaboration with Family Health Centres (FHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs) or District Health Directorates (DHDs) strengthens service continuity and inter-institutional coordination. Weaknesses include low awareness of SHM, imbalances in human resources and branch distribution, uncertainty in job descriptions, time pressure, discontinuity in in-service training, physical and technological infrastructure deficiencies, weaknesses in data monitoring and quality indicators, and problems with inter-level integration. Opportunities include the strengthening of preventive health and chronic disease policies, increased interest in healthy living and sustainable nutrition, opportunities for collaboration with local governments and stakeholders, and the use of digital health technologies and social media. Threats include preventive services being sidelined in budget and policy decisions, financial uncertainties, an uneven distribution of healthcare personnel, quantity-focused performance measurement, inadequate preparedness for disasters and emergencies, and data security risks.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that HLC s hold significant potential for strengthening preventive healthcare services. To fully realise this potential, a comprehensive approach is required that enhances human resource planning, infrastructure, legislation and financing structures, integration and disaster preparedness. The study provides a framework that can contribute to strategic planning processes for HLC s for policymakers and practitioners.