PCL in General Medicine-Health Assistant (HA)

PCL in General Medicine – Health Assistant (HA) at Shuvekshya Polytechnic College, Sitapaila, Kathmandu

The PCL in General Medicine (Health Assistant) program offered by Shuvekshya Polytechnic College (SPC), located in Sitapaila, Nagarjun Municipality, Kathmandu, is a three-year diploma course affiliated with the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT).

The program focuses on producing mid-level healthcare professionals capable of delivering primary and community-level medical services. It admits 40 students per year, with 4 scholarship seats reserved per CTEVT guidelines.

Eligible applicants must have passed the Secondary Education Examination (SEE) and qualify through the entrance examination conducted by CTEVT.

Curriculum Details

The curriculum balances classroom theory, clinical practice, and field-based training. Key subject areas are:

• Anatomy and Physiology

• Pathology and Microbiology

• Pharmacology

• Internal Medicine and Pediatrics

• Surgery and Orthopedics

• Obstetrics and Gynecology

• Community Health and Epidemiology

• First Aid and Emergency Services

Training also involves postings in hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and community outreach programs.

Objectives

• Prepare competent health workers capable of providing frontline care

• Support Nepal’s healthcare system through skilled human resources

• Encourage effective participation in preventive, curative, and promotive health services

• Strengthen clinical, communication, and decision-making abilities

Scope

Graduates can work in public and private hospitals, health posts, NGOs, INGOs, and emergency care units. The qualification is widely accepted in Nepal and meets the baseline criteria for further study in bachelor-level health science programs.

Learning Outcomes

Students completing the program are expected to:

• Provide basic diagnosis and treatment for common illnesses

• Assist in emergency procedures and referrals

• Deliver maternal and child healthcare services

• Participate in health education and disease prevention activities

• Maintain patient records and perform follow-up care

Skill Development Modules

The program includes clinical skill-building through simulations and real-time patient care. Practical modules include:

• History taking and physical examination

• Administration of medications and injections

• Basic surgical assistance and wound care

• Maternal and child health procedures

• Counseling and community-level awareness programs

Teaching Methodology

Teaching is conducted using:

• Subject-specific classroom lectures

• Laboratory and simulation-based learning

• Clinical rotations under supervision in hospitals and health posts

• Project work and community health field visits

• Evaluation through continuous assessments and CTEVT board exams

All instructional practices follow CTEVT curriculum standards.

Admission Requirements

• Minimum academic requirement: SEE pass or equivalent

• Must pass the CTEVT entrance examination

• Selection based on merit and institutional quota structure

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program may pursue roles such as:

• Health Assistant in government and private healthcare facilities

• Medical staff in primary healthcare centers and rural outreach programs

• Field staff in health-related organizations and development agencies

• Assistant in the clinical departments of hospitals and emergency services

They are also eligible for licensure through the Nepal Health Professional Council.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

SPC provides four scholarship seats per year for this program. Scholarships are offered following CTEVT criteria, prioritizing underprivileged, rural, and underrepresented groups.

Why Choose This Course?

The HA program is suited for individuals who want to serve in frontline healthcare settings. It offers structured patient care, diagnostics, and emergency services training, making it a relevant qualification for Nepal’s healthcare needs.

Conclusion

The PCL in General Medicine (Health Assistant) program at Shuvekshya Polytechnic College prepares students for clinical roles through a balanced mix of theoretical instruction and hands-on experience. It contributes to developing skilled health professionals ready to serve communities across Nepal.