Public Health Officer
A Public Health Officer (PHO) plays a critical role in safeguarding and improving the health of communities through policy, planning, and implementation of public health programs. So, Public Health Officers are envisioned as catalysts for health system transformation at the grassroots level.
In Nepal, the importance of this role has been further recognized through the government's new initiative—"One Palika, One Public Health Officer"—formally introduced in the fiscal year 2082/83 by the Ministry of Health and Population. This initiative marks a historic shift from slogans to action, aiming to strengthen local health governance by deploying technically skilled public health professionals at the local government (Palika) level.
The program is a strategic effort to connect communities with essential health services, support disease prevention, improve health outcomes, and institutionalize evidence-based planning and decision-making at the grassroots level.
Eligibility
Candidates eligible for this position must possess at least a graduate or equivalent qualification in Public Health i.e. Bachelor’s degree in public health (BPH) or Health Administration from a recognized educational institution. Alternatively, individuals who have completed a five-month training in public health and have four years of supervisory experience in roles such as nutrition officer, medical recorder, malaria officer, family planning officer, tuberculosis officer, entomologist, parasitologist, or vaccination officer are also considered qualified.
Additionally, those holding a graduate or intermediate-level qualification in medicine, health education, or sanitation, as well as individuals with a diploma or degree (or equivalent) in population studies, health education, entomology, parasitology, or medical recording, are eligible.
Career as a Public Health Officer
A career as a Public Health Officer is ideal for individuals passionate about improving community health and wellbeing through evidence-based interventions, policy implementation, and grassroots engagement. In Nepal, the role of a Public Health Officer offers diverse opportunities in both the public and development sectors.
Where You Can Work
- Government of Nepal: You can work as a जनस्वास्थ्य अधिकृत (Public Health Officer) at the अधिकृत ७/८ तह (Officer Level 7 or 8) Gazetted Third Class level, under the Health Service, Health Inspection Group through competitive exams conducted by the Public Service Commission (Lok Sewa Aayog).
- International and National Organizations: Many INGOs and NGOs working in the health sector recruit Public Health Officers for program design, implementation, and monitoring. Notable organizations include:
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- UNICEF Nepal
- GIZ
- Save the Children
- FHI 360
- Helen Keller International
- Plan International Nepal
- CARE Nepal
- Nepal Red Cross Society
- HERD International
- Family Planning Association of Nepal (FPAN)
Key Qualifications and Skills for Success
To improve your chances of being selected for the role of a Public Health Officer, the following qualifications and competencies are highly valued:
- Minimum of two years of relevant work experience in the public health sector.
- Strong understanding of community health systems and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) programs.
- Proven experience in social mobilization at the grassroots level.
- Ability to facilitate capacity-building workshops and training for FCHVs, HMGs, W/S-WASH-CCs, HFOMCs, PMCs, child club members, parents, and community groups.
- Excellent communication, leadership, team mobilization, and reporting skills in both English and Nepali.
- Proficiency in MS Office applications and internet use.
- A valid two-wheeler driving license for effective field engagement.
With these qualifications, you can build a meaningful and impactful career addressing public health challenges and promoting community well-being across Nepal.
Roles and Responsibilities of Public Health Officer
A Public Health Officer deployed under this initiative is expected to serve as a technical leader and policy advisor to the local government. Their roles and responsibilities include:
1. Policy and Planning
- Assist local governments in formulating evidence-based health policies and annual health plans.
- Support the integration of public health priorities in the local development agenda.
- Provide technical input during budget preparation and resource allocation.
2. Health System Strengthening
- Strengthen the capacity of Palika’s health branch through coordination, guidance, and support.
- Act as a bridge between local and provincial/federal health bodies to ensure the aligned implementation of health programs.
3. Data Management and Analysis
- Lead health data collection, documentation, and analysis at the local level.
- Prepare health status reports and use evidence to guide planning and decision-making.
- Monitor, evaluate, and report on ongoing health programs and public health trends.
4. Program Design and Implementation Support
- Guide the design and implementation of public health programs, including:
- Communicable and non-communicable disease control
- Nutrition, sanitation, school health, and environmental health
- Health promotion and health education strategies
- Support local campaigns, awareness activities, and health research projects.
5. Capacity Building and Technical Assistance
- Train and orient other health staff on public health issues, new policies, and tools.
- Act as a mentor and facilitator of peer learning and professional development.
6. Advocacy and Coordination
- Engage in policy dialogue and represent public health concerns in local forums.
- Coordinate with local representatives, NGOs, community groups, and other stakeholders to align efforts.
- Promote public health as a key component of local political and social development agendas.
7. Monitoring and Evaluation
- Establish micro-monitoring systems and performance evaluation frameworks to ensure effective management.
- Contribute to real-time monitoring and feedback mechanisms for continuous improvement.