Chandigarh, Oct 24 — A quiet revolution is unfolding in Punjab’s healthcare system. What began as Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s promise of free and accessible healthcare has today taken shape in the form of 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics serving people from every corner of the state.
In villages and towns alike, these small clinics have replaced long queues at district hospitals. “Earlier, people had to travel to cities even for minor treatment. Now, doctors are in their neighbourhoods,” said Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh. “This initiative has brought healthcare within everyone’s reach.”
The numbers tell a story of trust. Every day, nearly 73,000 people receive free treatment, and so far, 4.20 crore patients have benefited since the clinics were launched. Of these, 2.29 crore were treated in general OPD, while 1.91 crore medical tests were carried out at no cost — including 6.13 lakh blood tests and 2.48 lakh sugar tests.
The clinics, spread across 565 rural and 316 urban locations, have become lifelines for women, children, and the elderly. Reports show that 13.9 lakh women, 6.13 lakh children, and 2.48 lakh elderly citizens have received free care. “This is not just a health program — it’s a model of equality,” Dr. Singh said.
Each centre doubles up as a Health Awareness Hub, where patients are counselled on preventive care, nutrition, exercise, and hygiene. Health workers say these awareness drives are changing habits and improving community well-being.
Dr. Singh believes the decentralised system has strengthened rural health infrastructure. “Earlier, the entire burden was on big hospitals. Now, every village has a doctor. It’s a decentralized model that empowers people,” he mentioned.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann calls the clinics a cornerstone of his vision for a “healthy and self-reliant Punjab.” His government says the success of the model has inspired several states to consider replicating it.
Across Punjab, banners outside these clinics read, ‘Aam Aadmi Clinics — Sehat da Haq Har Lok Lai’ (Health is everyone’s right). For many, they are not just medical centres but reminders of what effective governance can achieve. “Aam Aadmi Clinics,” Mann said recently, “are not just buildings — they are symbols of people’s faith and a healthier future for Punjab.”
