PCL in General Medicine-Health Assistant (HA)

PCL in General Medicine – Health Assistant (HA) at Bharatpur Samudayik Hospital, Chitwan

The Proficiency Certificate Level (PCL) in General Medicine, commonly known as the Health Assistant (HA) program, is an 18-month paramedical course conducted at Bharatpur Samudayik Hospital.

Affiliated with the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT), the program focuses on preparing skilled mid-level healthcare professionals capable of delivering primary and emergency care. With 40 seats available, including 4 scholarship placements, the program follows the national curriculum framework approved by CTEVT and is recognized by the Nepal Health Professional Council (NHPC).

Curriculum Details

The course is divided into three semesters. It balances theoretical knowledge with practical application through field exposure and clinical rotations.

Key subjects include:

• Anatomy and Physiology

• Pharmacology and Pathology

• Community Health and Epidemiology

• Medical and Surgical Care

• First Aid and Emergency Management

• Family Planning and Reproductive Health

• Environmental Health and Nutrition

• Health Education and Communication

• Minor Procedures and Clinical Practice

Students learn through lectures, case-based learning, and hands-on experience in hospital and outreach settings.

Objectives

The main purpose of the program is to:

• Prepare health assistants who can diagnose and manage common illnesses and injuries

• Promote preventive and promotive healthcare at the community level

• Build communication and decision-making skills required for field practice

• Support Nepal’s primary healthcare network through workforce development

Scope

Graduates of this program are eligible to work in health posts, community hospitals, and emergency care settings. Their responsibilities may include clinical assistance, minor procedures, basic treatment delivery, and health education. The HA program bridges local populations and formal health systems, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, students will be able to:

• Identify and treat common illnesses under supervision

• Perform basic surgical and clinical procedures

• Conduct health screenings and organize outreach activities

• Apply public health principles in real settings

• Maintain patient records and deliver counseling services

Skill Development Modules

Hands-on training areas include:

• Measuring blood pressure, temperature, and pulse

• Administering injections and wound dressing

• Managing emergencies and first aid

• Conducting maternal and child health assessments

• Health education and community mobilization

Teaching Methodology

The course uses a multi-modal approach, combining classroom instruction with clinical work. Students are placed in various departments, including OPD, emergency, inpatient care, minor OT, and community field assignments. Practical exposure enhances diagnostic ability, technical performance, and patient interaction skills.

Evaluation includes:

• Internal assessment and attendance

• Clinical performance tracking

• Semester exams administered under CTEVT guidelines

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the following criteria:

• Minimum educational qualification: SEE passed

• Must meet CTEVT’s subject-specific GPA criteria

• Successful performance in the entrance examination administered by CTEVT

• Document verification at the time of admission

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue careers in:

• Local health posts and sub-health centers

• District and community hospitals

• NGOs and community-based health programs

• School and industrial health units

They may also continue studies in:

• Bachelor in Public Health (BPH)

• Bachelor in Health Care Management (BHCM)

• Other undergraduate programs in health sciences

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Of the 40 available seats, 4 are allocated for scholarship candidates based on the CTEVT policy. Scholarships are awarded to applicants from:

• Economically marginalized backgrounds

• Remote and rural areas

• Specific inclusion categories (gender, ethnicity, disability)

Detailed criteria and application processes are announced before each intake.

Why Choose This Course?

The Health Assistant program at Bharatpur Samudayik Hospital offers academic depth and field-based training. Students develop the skills to respond to community health needs, manage outpatient cases, and support physicians in daily healthcare operations. The hospital setting allows for exposure to diverse medical conditions under professional supervision.

Conclusion

The PCL in General Medicine—Health Assistant program provides students with the practical training, clinical skills, and public health knowledge required to work at the frontlines of Nepal’s healthcare system. Conducted in an established healthcare environment, this course supports both personal career growth and community service.