Optimizing patient flow in rural primary healthcare: An implementation research approach to improve the access, efficiency, and quality of care

Background Patient waiting time and consultation duration are key indicators of healthcare service delivery efficiency. Understanding patient flow and time utilization can help identify operational bottlenecks and optimize service delivery. Objectives To assess patient flow, waiting time, consultation duration, and time utilization across outpatient service points at a community health center (CHC) in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Methods A facility-based observational time–motion study was conducted among patients attending CHC. Time spent at registration, doctor consultation, and procedural service was recorded through direct observation using a mobile-based timer. Descriptive analyses were performed. Study was conducted during April -July 2025 in routine outpatient department working hours. Results The mean registration time and mean consultation time was 3.6 min (SD: 1.6) and 4.1 min (SD: 2.1), respectively. The mean procedure duration was 26.8 min (SD: 14.2). The average waiting time from entry to registration and registration to consultation was 1.97 min and 2.97 min, respectively. The average waiting time from consultation to the procedure room and from the procedure room to the pharmacy was 5.4 min and 3.37 min, respectively. Conclusion Patients spent an average of 39 min at the facility from arrival to exit. Most patients completed consultation within a short period, indicating limited time for medical consultation. Longer and more variable procedure times reflected differences in service complexity and operational workload. Study highlights the need to optimize the consultation time and resource allocation to enhance outpatient service efficiency in rural health facilities.