Exclusive Interview with Dr. Nita Diliprao Channe: A Dedicated CHO from Maharashtra with 18 Years of Service in the Health Sector.
At CHO Saathi, we’re always honored to share the inspiring journeys of Community Health Officers who are creating meaningful change at the grassroots level. Today, we bring you an insightful interview with Dr. Nita Diliprao Channe, a passionate and experienced CHO from Wardha district, Maharashtra. With 18 years in the healthcare field, her story is one of resilience, dedication, and a true commitment to community well-being.
Who is Community Health Officer (CHO)?
A Community Health Officer (CHO) or Mid-Level Health Provider (MLHP) in India plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between rural communities and the healthcare system. They are trained healthcare professionals, often posted at Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) or Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) under the government’s Ayushman Bharat Program, to deliver primary healthcare services.
Discover her journey, challenges, and message for fellow CHOs.
Q. What is your full name, and could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
Dr. Nita Diliprao Channe: I am a Community Health Officer (CHO) currently posted in the Wardha district of Maharashtra. I have been working in the health sector for the past 18 years and continue to serve with passion and dedication.
Q. When did you complete your graduation? Was it in your preferred field?
I completed my graduation in BAMS and pursued a postgraduate diploma in Hospital and Health Management (PGDHHM). Yes, it was definitely in my field of interest.
Q. What career goals did you have after graduation?
I always aimed to work in the healthcare sector. Any opportunity that allowed me to contribute to public health was something I was willing to pursue.
Q. How did you begin your journey as a CHO? Can you share your experience?
My career began in a private hospital, followed by work in an Ayurvedic hospital. Later, I joined the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) and then moved on to the Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) as a CHO. I’ve been serving as a CHO for the past 7 years.
Q. Which state are you currently posted in? Is it also your hometown?
I am posted in Maharashtra, and yes, it is also my home state.
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Q. Was the CHO job your first choice? If not, what did you originally aspire to become?
Yes, the CHO job was my first preference because I have always been passionate about working in the health sector.
Q. What was the biggest challenge you faced after joining as a CHO, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge has been managing data entry for a large population at my Ayushman Arogya Mandir. I tackled this by dividing responsibilities among the MPW, ANM, and myself to streamline the process.
Q. What is the most difficult aspect of your daily work as a CHO? If you had the opportunity, what change would you bring?
Daily data entry continues to be a major hurdle. If given the chance, I would appoint a dedicated data entry operator to help manage the workload, allowing CHOs to focus on their core responsibilities.
Q. Do you think CHOs face an excessive workload?
Yes, we have both offline and online responsibilities, and managing a large population adds to the burden.
Q. Do you feel supported by other cadres in your organization?
Support from other cadres is minimal and not always consistent or dedicated.
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Q. What changes would you like to see in your work environment? Have you noticed any improvements since your posting?
After I joined, I observed significant improvements in health promotion, prevention, regular treatment, staff training, counseling, infection control, cleanliness, and overall management. However, the increased workload due to new programs and online tasks remains a concern.
Q. In your opinion, should the incentive for CHOs be included as part of the salary? Why or why not?
Yes, the incentive should be part of our salary. CHOs work extremely hard, and sometimes, despite our efforts, we miss targets and lose the incentive. It’s disheartening.
Q. Should CHOs be recognized as a regular cadre? What is your view?
Absolutely. CHOs play a vital role in community health, and establishing us as a regular cadre will bring stability and improve public health services.
Q. Are you satisfied with your job as a CHO?
Yes, I am satisfied and proud to serve as a CHO.
Q. What message would you like to give to other CHOs across India?
Be practical, stay committed, and do your job sincerely.
Q. Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Nothing specific, but I hope my journey encourages others in the field to keep working hard.
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Final Thoughts
Dr. Nita Diliprao Channe’s story is a testament to the dedication CHOs bring to India’s healthcare system. Her ability to adapt, manage challenges, and focus on community welfare reflects the true spirit of a health warrior.
Stay tuned for more real-life stories from the frontline only on CHO Saathi – your trusted platform for all things related to Community Health Officers.
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