Overview
PCL in General Medicine (Health Assistant) – AMDA Institute of Health Sciences, Butwal
The PCL in General Medicine, commonly known as the Health Assistant (HA) program, at AMDA Institute of Health Sciences (AIHS), Butwal, is a three-year technical education course recognized by the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT). With an annual intake of 40 students, including 4 scholarship seats, this program develops middle-level healthcare professionals who can assist in curative, preventive, and promotive healthcare delivery.
The course integrates classroom learning with clinical and community-based experiences, in collaboration with Siddhartha Children and Women's Hospital, a key healthcare institution in the region. Graduates can register with the Nepal Health Professional Council (NHPC).
Curriculum Details
The course, which is structured into six semesters over three academic years, covers a wide range of basic and clinical medical sciences subjects.
Key topics include:
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Basic Medical Sciences: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology
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Clinical Medicine: Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Surgery, Obstetrics, and Gynecology
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Diagnostics and First Aid: Lab techniques, Radiology, Emergency services
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Public Health: Epidemiology, Environmental Health, Health Education
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Medical Ethics and Record Keeping
In the final semester, students undergo a supervised internship in healthcare settings where they apply their knowledge in diagnosing and treating common diseases under the guidance of licensed medical officers.
Objectives
The primary goals of the HA program are to:
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Prepare healthcare workers capable of supporting medical officers in primary healthcare centers
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Build practical skills in basic diagnosis, treatment, and emergency care
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Promote health services in rural and semi-urban communities
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Train students to manage common illnesses, perform minor procedures, and offer preventive education
Scope
Graduates of this program are eligible to work in:
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Government health posts and primary healthcare centers
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District hospitals, private clinics, and emergency services
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NGOs, INGOs, and community-based health initiatives
They may also pursue further education in Bachelor of Public Health (BPH), MBBS (with bridge courses), or related disciplines.
Learning Outcomes
After completing the course, graduates will be able to:
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Conduct basic physical examinations and medical histories
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Diagnose and manage common health conditions
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Perform minor surgical procedures such as wound care and abscess drainage
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Provide maternal and child health counseling
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Deliver health education in schools and community settings
They also learn to manage epidemics, maintain hygiene, and address nutrition-related issues.
Skill Development Modules
Throughout the program, students participate in:
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Clinical postings at Siddhartha Hospital
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Simulation labs for procedural training
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Mobile health camps and immunization drives
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Community diagnosis and household surveys
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Patient communication and case documentation practice
This combination of lab training, hospital practice, and community work ensures students are well-prepared for real-world challenges.
Teaching Methodology
AIHS uses a blended approach that emphasizes both theory and practice:
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Interactive lectures led by medical professionals
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Group-based clinical case discussions
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Laboratory-based diagnosis sessions
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Role-playing and patient simulation
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Continuous assessment, oral tests, and practical demonstrations
Students are evaluated through written exams, clinical performance, and fieldwork reports.
Admission Requirements
To apply for this program, candidates must:
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Have passed the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) or equivalent
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Achieve a minimum GPA of 2.0 and at least a ‘C’ grade in Science, Mathematics, and English
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Submit educational certificates and a valid birth or citizenship certificate
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Qualify through the CTEVT entrance examination
Final selection is based on the official merit list published by CTEVT.
Career Opportunities
Health Assistants are in demand across Nepal’s healthcare infrastructure. Graduates may work as:
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Assistant health practitioners in rural health posts
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Emergency care assistants in hospitals and trauma centers
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Medical service coordinators in NGOs or outreach programs
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First responders in natural disaster zones
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Health educators in schools or community groups
They may also choose to start their own clinic under legal and licensing provisions.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Out of 40 available seats, 4 are allocated for scholarships as per CTEVT guidelines. Students from marginalized or low-income backgrounds may also apply for tuition fee support. AIHS provides a 20% discount on standard fees for qualifying applicants.
Why Choose This Course?
The PCL in General Medicine at AIHS equips students with practical medical knowledge applicable to clinical settings and rural outreach. The course structure promotes critical thinking, social responsibility, and service to underserved communities, making it a purposeful path for SEE graduates interested in healthcare.
Conclusion
The Health Assistant program at AMDA Institute of Health Sciences, Butwal, offers a balanced and field-relevant education for those aiming to serve in Nepal’s health system. With structured training, practical exposure, and recognized accreditation, graduates are ready to support doctors and deliver community-centered healthcare nationwide.
