Nagaland Community Health Officers call for improved healthcare infrastructure

The Nagaland Association of Community Health Officers (NACHO) held its Biennial General Meeting in Wokha on October 8. During the meeting, members called for strengthened community-level healthcare services, improved infrastructure, and better service conditions to ensure healthcare accessibility across Nagaland.

Dr. Chumben Murry, Advisor to the Chief Minister, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the role of Community Health Officers (CHOs) as vital mid-level providers who link communities with the broader health system. He noted that CHOs are essential for bringing services closer to the grassroots level and coordinating with frontline workers like Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs).

NACHO President Arensenla Longkhumer identified several prevalent community health issues, including fever, cough, and diarrhea in children; hypertension in older adults; and anemia among women and lactating mothers. Additionally, the association noted concerns regarding injuries, skin ailments, and recent deaths suspected to be linked to spurious liquor.