Orientation training begins for 8th batch of Community Health Officers under National Health Mission

DIMAPUR — A five-day orientation training for the 8th batch of community health officers (CHOs) under the National Health Mission (NHM), Nagaland, commenced on Monday at the SPMU Hall, Directorate of Health and Family Welfare, Kohima.

On the occasion, a total of 19 CHOs were inducted, stated a press release.

During a short inaugural programme, Dr. Avile Zao, Mission Director, NHM, emphasised the Government of India’s vision to transform all primary health centres (PHCs) and sub-centres (SCs) into health and wellness centres (HWCs) under the Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) initiative.

She noted that with the intervention of CHOs, there has been a significant jump in the performance of healthcare delivery across Nagaland. She remarked that CHOs now serve as the primary point of contact at health facilities, taking on expanded roles and greater responsibilities, particularly in the absence of medical officers.

Dr. Keveduyi Theyo, State Programme Officer, NHM, lauded the commitment and rigorous training of the new CHOs, emphasising their critical role as the first point of contact in delivering healthcare at the grassroots.

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He emphasised that CHOs play a foundational role in the state’s primary healthcare system by effectively bridging the gap between communities and essential health services. Highlighting the importance of integrity, compassion, and continuous learning, the department assured them of full support.

They were also reminded of the importance of cordial relationships, proper documentation, and effective community engagement. He noted that the induction marks not only the beginning of their service but also a commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery across Nagaland.

With the induction of the 8th batch of CHOs, Nagaland will have upgraded 336 SCs to HWCs. This training will equip newly inducted CHOs with critical knowledge and practical skills to serve as the first point of contact in HWCs.

The training covers a wide range of topics, including maternal and child health, non-communicable disease screening, communicable disease control, adolescent and elderly care, palliative support, ENT issues, government health schemes, and digital tools for health service delivery.

With sessions led by domain experts across NHM, the programme aims to strengthen primary healthcare services and enhance community-level interventions through well-prepared CHOs.