PCL in General Medicine-Health Assistant (HA)

PCL in General Medicine – Health Assistant (HA) at  Mahakali Polytechnic Institute

The Proficiency Certificate Level (PCL) in General Medicine, commonly known as the Health Assistant (HA) program, is a three-year technical course offered by Mahakali Polytechnic Institute, located in Ward No. 4 of Bhimdatta Municipality, Mahendranagar, Kanchanpur. Affiliated with the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT), this course prepares mid-level healthcare providers capable of diagnosing and managing common illnesses, delivering emergency care, and supporting community-based health services. The program admits candidates who have completed the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) and passed the CTEVT entrance test.

Curriculum Details

The program, structured to build academic knowledge and clinical experience, includes basic science in the first year, applied medical science in the second, and clinical practice in the third. Students also engage in fieldwork at hospitals and primary health care centers.

Medium of Instruction: English and Nepali
Program Duration: 3 Years
Annual Intake Capacity: 40 Students
Total Course Cost: NPR 295,000 (Approx.)

Objectives

• Develop competent mid-level health professionals to serve in rural and urban health institutions.

• Train students to diagnose and manage primary-level medical conditions.

• Prepare graduates to serve as first contact healthcare providers in health posts and clinics.

• Build capacity in emergency care, maternal health, child health, and communicable disease control.

• Promote a professional and ethical approach to healthcare delivery.

Scope

Graduates of this program are eligible for Grade “B” registration with the Nepal Health Professional Council (NHPC). They can work as health assistants in government health posts, private clinics, NGOs, and hospitals. The program also provides a foundation for higher education in medical and public health fields.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Conduct patient assessments and basic diagnostic evaluations.

• Prescribe medications for basic health problems under national protocol.

• Provide first aid and emergency medical care.

• Manage healthcare delivery at primary care level institutions.

• Educate communities on preventive healthcare measures.

Skill Development Modules

Students receive focused training in key medical and clinical skills, including:

• General Medicine and Primary Care

• Community Health and Epidemiology

• Maternal and Child Health

• Medical Ethics and Health Communication

• Basic Surgical and Emergency Procedures

Practical sessions are conducted in healthcare institutions, allowing real-time learning and supervised clinical rotations.

Teaching Methodology

The course is delivered through a combination of:

• Classroom lectures

• Clinical postings in hospitals and health centers

• Interactive case studies and discussions

• Group assignments and presentations

• Continuous assessments and field-based evaluations

This approach ensures that students develop both theoretical understanding and practical competence.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Passed SEE (or equivalent SLC) with a minimum GPA of 2 or pass division.

• Completed and passed English, Science, and Mathematics subjects.

• Passed the CTEVT entrance examination.

Documents Required:

• Completed application form

• Photocopies of academic certificates and transcripts

• Citizenship certificate copy

• Six recent passport-sized photos

Career Opportunities

Health Assistant graduates are qualified to work in:

• Primary Health Care Centers (PHCC)

• District and Zonal Hospitals

• Health Posts and Sub-Health Posts

• Private and Community Clinics

• Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) working in public health

Depending on eligibility and interest, they can also pursue further education such as Bachelor of Public Health (BPH), Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNS), or MBBS.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Mahakali Polytechnic Institute offers scholarships under:

• Mayor’s Scholarship Program

• Reserved quotas for underrepresented groups

• Support from local municipalities for students from economically challenged backgrounds

These schemes are available to qualifying candidates who meet academic and eligibility standards.

Why Choose This Course?

The Health Assistant program at Mahakali Polytechnic Institute is suited for students committed to improving public health and serving in frontline healthcare settings. With strong community-based learning, experienced faculty, and practical exposure, the program equips students to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare sector.

Conclusion

The PCL in General Medicine – Health Assistant program at Mahakali Polytechnic Institute builds the foundation for a career in primary healthcare. By blending academic instruction with clinical training, the course prepares students for various roles in Nepal’s health system. Graduates are equipped to work directly with patients and communities, helping improve healthcare accessibility and outcomes.