The correct option is 2 only.
Explanation
The public health infrastructure in India is structured into a three-tier system-Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary-to ensure a systematic referral pathway. This hierarchy is designed to provide health services ranging from basic care at the grassroots level to specialized treatments at higher levels, ensuring efficient resource utilization.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. Primary Health Centres (PHCs) serve as the first contact point between the village community and a Medical Officer. They are equipped to provide basic curative, preventive, and promotive health care (e.g., OPD services, immunization, and normal deliveries). They do not have the infrastructure or specialized expertise required for advanced procedures like neurosurgeries.
- Statement 2 is Correct. Community Health Centres (CHCs) constitute the secondary level of health care and act as referral centres for 4 to 5 PHCs. They are staffed with specialists (Surgeon, Physician, Gynaecologist, and Paediatrician) and are designated as First Referral Units (FRUs) for handling complications that cannot be managed at the PHC level.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect. Tertiary health care institutions include Medical Colleges and specialized hospitals (e.g., AIIMS). Far from being prohibited, these institutions are the primary centres for imparting quality medical education, conducting advanced research, and providing super-specialty care.
Key Takeaway:
The Indian health infrastructure hierarchy flows from Sub-centres (grassroots interface) → PHCs (primary care/first doctor contact) → CHCs (secondary care/specialists) → Tertiary Care (super-specialty and medical education).