PHC vs. CHC: Functional Roles
The Primary Health Centre (PHC) is the first contact point between the village community and the medical officer, while the Community Health Centre (CHC) serves as the First Referral Unit (FRU).
Functional Comparison
| Function | Primary Health Centre (PHC) | Community Health Centre (CHC) |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Promotive, preventive, and basic curative. | First Referral Unit (Specialized care). |
| Bed Capacity | 4–6 beds. | 30 beds. |
| Key Personnel | Medical Officer (MBBS) + support. | Specialists (Surgeon, Physician, Gynecologist, Pediatrician). |
Key PHC Functions
- Medical Care: Outpatient and basic inpatient services.
- MCH & Family Planning: ANC/PNC services and immunization.
- Disease Control: Surveillance and implementation of National Health Programmes (NTEP, NVBDCP).
- Safe Water/Sanitation: Promotion of environmental health at the village level.
High-Yield Exam Pearl:
- PHC Coverage: 30,000 (plains) / 20,000 (hilly/tribal).
- CHC Coverage: 120,000 (plains) / 80,000 (hilly/tribal).
- First Referral Unit (FRU): A CHC qualifies as an FRU if it is equipped to provide 24/7 emergency obstetric and newborn care (EmONC) and emergency surgery.