Assessing The Impact of Quality Standards: A Comparative Study of Nqas-Certified and Non-Certified Public Health Facilities In Sangareddy District, State of Telangana

Abstract

Quality assurance in public healthcare has gained prominence in India through initiatives like the National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS). This comparative study assesses the impact of NQAS certification on healthcare delivery by examining certified and non-certified facilities in Sangareddy District, Telangana. The research evaluates 24 public health facilities—12 NQAS-certified and 12 non-certified—across parameters including infrastructure quality, service delivery efficiency, patient satisfaction, and clinical outcomes. Using a mixed-methods approach combining facility assessments, patient exit interviews (n=480), and performance data analysis from 2022-2024, the study reveals significant differences between certified and non-certified facilities. NQAS-certified facilities demonstrated 34% higher patient satisfaction scores, 28% better adherence to clinical protocols, and 41% improved infrastructure standards. However, challenges persist in sustaining quality improvements and translating certification into consistently superior health outcomes. The findings suggest that while NQAS certification drives quality enhancement, complementary interventions addressing human resources and supply chain management are essential for comprehensive healthcare quality improvement. This research provides evidence-based insights for policymakers on quality assurance effectiveness in resource-constrained public health settings.