CHOs call for stronger healthcare system, improve infra in Wokha

WOKHA, OCT 8 (NPN): Community Health Officers (CHOs) have called for strengthened community-level healthcare services, improved infrastructure and better service conditions, while reaffirming their commitment to making healthcare more accessible to people across Nagaland.
The concerns and recommendations were highlighted during the Biennial General Meeting (BGM) 2026 of the Nagaland Association of Community Health Officers (NACHO) held at the Town Hall, Wokha, on October 8 under the theme, “United for Health, Committed for Community.” Advisor to the chief minister, Dr. Chumben Murry, attended the programme as the honorary guest.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Murry underscored the evolving role of CHOs in strengthening primary healthcare and ensuring health services reach communities at the grassroots level. Referring to the Alma-Ata Declaration of 1978 and the National Health Policy, he said healthcare systems should focus on bringing services closer to people and described CHOs as vital mid-level healthcare providers linking communities with the wider health system.
He noted that CHOs work directly within communities, enabling them to better understand local health challenges and required interventions. He also highlighted their role in coordinating with frontline workers, including Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), to improve healthcare delivery.
Emphasising the importance of compassionate healthcare, Dr. Murry said health workers should look beyond hospitals and clinics and remain committed to listening to people, reaching out to communities and supporting patients in times of need.
Speaking on community health concerns, NACHO president Arensenla Longkhumer said fever, cough and diarrhoea are commonly reported among children, while hypertension is prevalent among older adults. She added that anaemia remains a major concern among women and lactating mothers, alongside cases of injuries, skin rashes and other ailments.
On suspected deaths linked to spurious liquor, Longkhumer stressed the importance of public awareness and preventive measures. She informed that standard operating procedures (SOPs) have been prepared and awareness programmes are being conducted in collaboration with communities and churches.
Meanwhile, NACHO vice-president Nevelu Nyekha appealed to the state government to regularise the services of CHOs, noting that several states have already adopted similar measures. If regularisation is not feasible, he suggested merging salary components with the Performance-Based Incentive (PBI). He also sought additional manpower and improved infrastructure at Health and Wellness Centres to address increasing workloads.
The meeting also discussed the roles, responsibilities and challenges faced by CHOs and stressed the need for stronger coordination across all levels of the healthcare system.