Health Status Assessment in Rural Medical Camps: A Comparative Analysis of Thirukurungudi and Vaddakankulam Healthcare Interventions

Abstract

Background: Medical camps serve as critical healthcare delivery mechanisms in underserved rural
populations, providing both immediate care and valuable epidemiological data for public health
planning.
Objective: To analyze health patterns and clinical parameters from two rural medical camps in Tamil
Nadu, India, and develop evidence-based recommendations for improving healthcare delivery in
similar settings.
Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted on data from 198 patients attending
medical camps in Thirukurungudi (2019, n=132) and Vaddakankulam (2020, n=66). Clinical
parameters including hemoglobin levels, kidney function markers (creatinine, urea), uric acid, and
urine analysis were evaluated. Descriptive statistics, comparative analysis, and visualization techniques
were employed using Python-based analytical tools.
Results: The mean age was 43.1 years (range: 6-90) in Thirukurungudi and 47.2 years (range: 9-90)
in Vaddakankulam. Female participation was higher in both camps (66.7% and 53.0% respectively).
Anemia prevalence (Hb <12 g/dL) was significantly elevated in Thirukurungudi at 64.4% (67/104
patients), while kidney dysfunction indicators showed 1.5% of patients with elevated creatinine levels
(>1.2 mg/dL). Data quality issues were identified in the Vaddakankulam dataset, limiting comparative
analysis.
Conclusions: High anemia prevalence and evidence of kidney dysfunction highlight significant health
burdens in rural populations. Standardized data collection protocols, targeted interventions for anemia
management, and systematic follow-up mechanisms are essential for improving health outcomes in
medical camp settings.
Clinical Significance: These findings inform evidence-based strategies for optimizing rural healthcare
delivery and establishing sustainable health monitoring systems in underserved communities.