REDEFINING THE ROLE OF ASHA WORKERS IN INDIAN HEALTHCARE

Community health professionals are critical in filling the gap between traditional healthcare systems and marginalized populations. Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) workers have been an important workforce in providing essential healthcare services to rural and marginalized communities. ASHA workers have emerged as a cornerstone of India\u27s healthcare system, playing a pivotal role in bridging the gap between rural and marginalized communities and formal healthcare services. There is a need for expansion of the working of ASHAs to utilize them more efficiently. Through enhanced training, technological integration, and policy support, ASHA workers can transform into empowered agents of change, ensuring equitable healthcare access for all. Mobile applications for data collection, telemedicine for remote consultations, and AI-powered tools for diagnosis can enhance their capabilities and improve the accuracy of healthcare services. Reimagining the role of ASHA workers requires supportive policies and increased advocacy efforts. Adequate compensation, formal recognition, and regular skill upgradation should be integral to their roles. Engaging with policymakers and stakeholders can ensure that their voices are heard at the policy level. This review article aims to critically examine the existing role of ASHA workers, analyze their challenges and successes, and propose innovative strategies to reimagine their role in the Indian healthcare sector. By synthesizing current literature and drawing insights from various sources, this article highlights the potential for ASHA workers to contribute significantly to community-based healthcare delivery, health education, and disease prevention