Andhra Pradesh launches first container hospital to serve remote villages

In an effort to improve healthcare access for tribal residents in remote hamlets and hilltop regions, the Andhra Pradesh government has launched its first prefabricated health sub-centre, known as a “container hospital.” Built from shipping containers, this innovative medical facility is designed to provide essential healthcare in areas where medical services have been historically limited.
The first-of-its-kind container hospital, located atop a hill in Parvathipuram Manyam district’s Karadavalasa panchayat under the Tonam Primary Health Centre (PHC), is ready for inauguration. The facility will begin as a pilot project by the end of this month.
The container hospital is expected to benefit over 2,000 residents from nearby villages. This hospital will be equipped with four beds, a TV, and a balcony. It will be staffed by a doctor, healthcare workers, and necessary medical equipment and supplies. Around 15 types of medical tests will be conducted, including screenings for pregnant women and providing iron sucrose injections for anaemia patients.

The doctor in-charge of the container hospital from Tonam PHC, will visit twice a week to oversee operations. On other days, the facility will be staffed by a mid-level health provider, a health assistant, auxiliary nurse midwife, Asha worker, and a community health worker. “All general check-ups will be carried out here. This will greatly benefit the tribal community,” the doctor in-charge, Ajay, stated.
Based on public feedback, the government plans to set up four or five additional container hospitals across the district to further enhance healthcare access.