Correct Option
The correct option is 2 only
Explanation
The rural healthcare infrastructure in India is organized into a three-tier system under the National Health Mission (NHM): Sub-Centres (SC), Primary Health Centres (PHC), and Community Health Centres (CHC). This hierarchy ensures a referral pathway from the village level to specialized care.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: While the Sub-Centre is the most peripheral outpost, the Primary Health Centre (PHC) is the first contact point between the village community and a qualified Medical Officer. It acts as the primary functional unit providing integrated curative and preventive health care to the rural population.
- Statement 2 is Correct: PHCs are not located at district headquarters. They are established in rural areas based on population norms: one PHC for every 30,000 population in plains and 20,000 in hilly, tribal, or difficult areas. District headquarters typically house District Hospitals, which serve as secondary care institutions.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: PHCs are equipped to provide basic primary healthcare services, such as maternal and child health, disease control, and minor curative services. Advanced medical interventions like neurosurgery are classified as tertiary care and are available only in specialized hospitals or Medical Colleges.
Key Takeaway: The Primary Health Centre (PHC) serves as the first referral unit for Sub-Centres and is the lowest tier of the rural health structure where a Medical Officer is available, adhering to specific population norms (30,000/20,000).