Latest news with #CHOs
The Hindu
29-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
CHOs continue to wait for government response on resolution of demands
Following protests in April and May and an assurance of a meeting with the Health Minister by concerned officials, Community Health Officers (CHOs) wait for the same continues till date. Stopping work, the CHOs had launched a Statewide protest on April 24 that continued for around 40 days. Since their protest affected the delivery of healthcare services in villages across the State, the Health Department officials agreed to schedule a meeting of CHOs with Minister for Health, Medical Education and Family Welfare Satya Kumar Yadav. 'We trusted the government and withdrew our protest. However, it has been nearly a month now, and there is no word about the meeting with the Minister or about the resolution of the pending demands,' said B. Sandeep, secretary of the Andhra Pradesh Midlevel Health Provider/Community Health Officers' Association. He said that the financial burden on many CHOs, who work in Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs, also called Village Health Clinics (VHC), has been increasing by the day. Launched in 2018 under the National Health Mission programme by the Centre, a VHC serves a rural population of around 3,000 to 5,000. While there are more than 10,000 VHCs in the State, a few of them were in different stages of construction, for which CHOs had to spend from their own pockets. 'We spent from our pockets to ensure that the VHCs were in accordance to the National Quality Assurance Standards. In 700-800 centres, the CHOs had to spend ₹30,000-₹40,000 for the purpose. The government is yet to reimburse the amount to CHOs in the State, totalling to ₹1.5 crore,' Mr. Sandeep said. The CHOs receive ₹25,000 towards salary and ₹15,000 as incentives. However, the incentives have been pending for the past six months, he said, adding that salaries during the protest period are also yet to be released. They are also waiting for the government to remove the Face Recognition System, which requires them to punch out from the office at 8 p.m.. 'Our duty hours end by 4 p.m., but there is a false perception among government officials that we are not doing enough work. Hence, the 8 p.m. FRS exists. CHOs, mostly women, have expressed concern about the 8 p.m. punch out from the clinic, usually located on the outskirts of the village,' said a female CHO, on the condition of anonymity. Mr. Sandeep said that they would be able to express their concerns only if the government agreed for a meeting. The CHOs added that when they went to meet the Minister and other health officials, they were told that the latter were busy with the 'Yogandhra' programme. 'Now that it is over, we urge the Minister to look at our problems and allow us to present our case,' said Mr. Sandeep.
The Guardian
13-06-2025
- The Guardian
From the best local hotspots to fraud protection: four ways ‘chief holiday officers' can ace their planning
With the holiday season fast approaching, most people will be busy seeking out the perfect destination. However, for chief holiday officers (CHOs), trip planning goes well beyond the simple question of 'where to go?'. While everyone else is dreaming about sipping cocktails by the pool or taking in the unforgettable vistas from a popular hiking path, CHOs are the ones building the 'who's paid what?' spreadsheets, reading every single review in painstaking detail, and downloading the multitude of apps that will introduce everyone to a wealth of local experiences. Yes, they are the people who thrive on good planning. CHOs love a bit of legwork, get great satisfaction in thinking of the unthinkable, and exude the role of organiser – especially when it comes to putting together a trip to remember. However, even the best CHOs could do with support, and to make their lives easier Barclays has curated a suite of products, including the Travel Pack1 (£14.50 per month), which offers cover for lost bags, cancellations and breakdowns for those who are looking for great value as well as peace of mind, and the Travel Plus Pack1 (£22.50 per month), which not only offers traditional travel insurance, but also a wealth of extras that help make any holiday feel safe, comfortable and – dare we say it – an adventure. From discounted fast-track security at airports to 24/7 concierge service, this means being looked after at every stage of the trip. So buckle up, these are the holiday gamechangers you never knew you needed. According to the Civil Aviation Authority, flights from UK airports departed on average 18 minutes and 24 seconds late last year. While even the savviest of travellers do their best to take delays in their stride, it can be a drag arriving at the airport only to be hit with the news that you're going to be waiting around a while – not to mention the inevitable check-in queues and uncomfortable waiting areas that have to be endured. Thankfully, the Barclays Travel Plus Pack1 (£22.50 per month) is designed to help soothe these moments. It comes with the DragonPass Premier+ app2, which offers a discounted fast-track service at airport security – all you have to do is pre-book online to avoid the stress and walk straight past those seemingly neverending queues. Once through, you can enjoy six free visits to more than 1,000 airport lounges, with 25% off at selected restaurants. With this extra assistance, that typically harried time spent at the airport can be transformed into a relaxing – and enjoyable – experience. Even better, if you boost your regular Barclays account with Blue Rewards3, you get access to exclusive Apple Original shows and movies only on Apple TV+. While escaping the great British weather is often at the forefront of most people's minds when booking a trip, CHOs are often thinking about how to make the most of their expenditure. The Barclaycard Avios Plus credit card* allows you to collect Avios – the currency of the British Airways Club – with every £1 you spend on eligible purchases (T&Cs apply). Collecting Avios through day-to-day spending can save you money on flights, upgrades, hotels and car hire. If you plan to use your credit card abroad, then a Barclaycard Rewards credit card** comes with zero foreign transaction fees. Even better, you get 0.25% cashback on eligible purchases (T&Cs apply). Top tip: always pay in local currency to get the best exchange rate on the day. In 2025, keeping your bank account secure has to be a priority – and Barclaycard has a fraud team on hand in the UK and abroad. This means if the unfortunate does happen, Barclaycard will refund you for any fraud on your account, including associated interest payments. So keep your local helpline number close and get in touch as soon as possible if you think you've been targeted. The Barclays app4 also makes keeping your money safe abroad a breeze – you can temporarily freeze your account with the click of a button should you lose your card while away or fear it's been compromised. *Representative example. 80.1% representative APR (variable); purchase rate 29.9% p.a. (variable); based on £1,200 credit limit; monthly fee, £20. The approval of your application depends on your financial circumstances and borrowing history, so do the terms you may be offered. The interest rates may differ from those shown. T&Cs apply. **Representative example. 28.9% representative APR (variable); purchase rate 28.9% p.a. (variable); based on £1,200 credit limit. The approval of your application depends on your financial circumstances and borrowing history, so do the terms you may be offered. The interest rates may differ from those shown. T&Cs apply. Delving deep beneath the touristy hubs of any destination is a must when getting to know the wondrous places that host you. Visiting restaurants, markets and businesses that are owned and run by local communities not only enable you to experience the local way of life, but you can also be reassured your money is going back into the local economy and to those who need it the most. A part of the Barclays Travel Plus Pack1 (£22.50 per month), the digital concierge service provided by Ten offers seamless access to the best activities, events and eateries wherever you are in the world. From booking top-name restaurants to activities unique to the destination, the Ten activities hub will guide you to a list of unmissable things to do. Additionally, Ten allows you to book room upgrades and spa experiences in hotels. If your timing is right, members might also be offered complimentary tickets to exclusive events in town, such as music gigs and sporting events. Every good CHO knows that the best way to stay safe while travelling is to have reliable travel insurance that protects every aspect of your holiday. Teaming up with Aviva to include winter sports, cruises and even non-manual work outside of the UK, the Barclays Travel Pack1 (£14.50 per month) protects you on both family holidays and work trips, without any need for extra cover. And if you enjoy the freedom of having your own transport while travelling – especially with a family – it also comes armed with RAC breakdown cover, with unlimited UK callouts for account holders in any vehicle they are travelling in. Even better, this cover will ensure you have access to a hire car, alternative transport options (for example, you'll be able to take a train or plane), and overnight accommodation, if your car was to break down – ensuring your holiday doesn't come to an end too early. If you intend to be away for more than 31 days, you can purchase a 'longer trip upgrade' for up to 120 days. This option is ideal for those taking a sabbatical or those who are off on the adventure of a lifetime. A pre-trip call is all you need to remember, and then the fun can begin! Find out more about Barclays travel perks by visiting 1 Terms, conditions, exclusions and eligibility criteria apply. You must have a Barclays current account, be 18 or over and hold this product for at least six months from the date of purchase – then you can cancel at any time. 2 Terms and conditions apply for the DragonPass Premier+ app and fast track security. 3 To join Barclays Blue Rewards, eligibility, conditions and a £5 monthly fee apply. 4 You must be 11 or over to use the app. T&Cs apply.
The Hindu
02-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
CHOs express concern over delay in receiving salaries
Community Health Officers (CHOs), who were on a strike from April 17 to May 26, have expressed concern over the delay in receiving salaries and requested the State government to initiate the process at the earliest. There are around 10,000 Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs or Village Health Clinics in the State, which are manned by the CHOs. Each clinic, which caters to a rural population of 3,000 to 5,000, is staffed by a CHO, an ANM and two or three ASHAs. The CHOs are authorised to prescribe 105 types of drugs to people, conduct 14 types of tests and provide 12 types of services to the rural public. The CHOs had been on a strike for more than a month demanding payment of pending incentives, an increase in their pay of ₹25,000, regularisation of the services of those who completed six years and resumption of PF. They had withdrawn their strike on May 26, after they were promised that a meeting with the Health Minister Y. Satya Kumar Yadav would be scheduled soon to discuss their issues. While they continue to wait for the meet, they pointed out that the government is yet to release their salaries for the past two months. 'From the meagre salary of ₹25,000 that we receive, we run both our homes and the clinics. After spending from our pockets on the rents, electricity charges at the clinic, we are not left with much to spend on any other necessities at home. If the salaries are not credited on time, it becomes extremely difficult for us to run the clinic,' said Sandeep, president of the Andhra Pradesh Midlevel Health Provider/Community Health Officers' Association. More than 4,000 of the total 10,000 clinics are being run in rented buildings, Mr. Sandeep said, adding that the rents are usually between ₹1,000 and ₹5,000. He expressed disappointment at the government's perception that they do not do enough work. 'We took part in the NCD (non-communicable diseases) survey 3.0, screened people for not just oral and breast cancers, but also cervical. This is in addition to the administrative role we play at the clinics. Despite bearing many responsibilities, the government thinks we do not do enough,' Mr. Sandeep said. He requested the government to release their salaries immediately and hoped that the meeting is scheduled soon.
The Hindu
02-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Karnataka's Health Department extends Gruha Arogya scheme across State
For early detection and management of non-communicable diseases (NCD) among people in rural areas, Karnataka's Health Department has now extended the Gruha Arogya (doorstep healthcare) scheme across the State. The scheme that was formally launched by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on October 24 last year was initially piloted in Kolar district, where dedicated health teams conducted door-to-door screening for major NCDs. Following its success, the initiative is now being scaled up to all districts, announced Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Monday. Major NCDs During the pilot project, screening was conducted for major NCDs, including Diabetes, Hypertension, three common cancers - Oral, Breast and Cervical cancer (the latter two for females) in individuals aged 30 years and above. Now, ASHA workers will conduct door-to-door visits to raise awareness about NCDs and facilitate health check-ups for individuals above 30 at Ayushman Health and Wellness Centres. Community Health Officers (CHOs) will conduct screenings for 14 NCDs, including hypertension, diabetes, and cancer, and record the data on the NCD portal. Free medication and regular follow-up care will be provided at the nearest Ayushman Health and Wellness centres to those diagnosed, the Minister said. Apart from Diabetes, Hypertension, Oral Cancer, Breast Cancer, Cervical Cancer, the other NCDs to be covered under the scheme include Diabetic Foot, Mental Health Disorders, Neurological Disorders, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Diabetic Retinopathy, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Anemia (19-29 yrs). Five houses a day Srinivas G., State Deputy Director (Non-Communicable Diseases) said ASHA workers will visit the households under their jurisdiction on all working days of the week (excluding State-declared holidays), covering approximately four to five houses per day. During these visits, they will register all members of the household in the ASHA application on the NCD portal. The CHOs, who will provide screening, diagnosis, management, and treatment of all NCDs for individuals aged 30 years and above, will refer the suspected cases and patients with diabetes for confirmation through tele-consultation. 'CHOs will conduct screening, management and treatment services for walk-in patients at Ayushman Health Centres every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. On Wednesdays and Fridays, CHOs will conduct outreach activities and organise NCD screening camps in coordination with ASHA workers,' he said. 'Patients under treatment will receive regular follow-up, including re-examinations and necessary support for a period of up to two months,' he added.
The Hindu
23-05-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Community Health Officers strike in AP enters 25th day
The Andhra Pradesh Mid-level Health Providers/Community Health Officers Association (APMCA) workers indefinite strike across the State has entered 25th day, escalating their demands for government intervention. The union leaders have submitted a representation to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and are waiting for resolution of their long-standing issues. Speaking to The Hindu, APMCA president N. Niranjan said, 'Under National Health Mission (NHM), nearly 23,000 employees, including 10,000 Community Health Officers (CHOs), are working in AP. The CHOs have not received 23% enhancement on par with other NHM employees. Also, regularisation of services is pending for those who completed six years of service.' Earlier, when we staged a protest in November 2023, Special Chief Secretary for Department of Health, Medical and Family Welfare M.T. Krishna Babu had assured to resolve our issues, Mr. Niranjan said while adding that even though he remained in the same position after the change of government, there was no announcement till now in the favour of CHOs. The CHOs play a vital role in the Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) programme, which is a key component of the Ayushman Bharat initiative. They are mid-level service providers who deliver comprehensive primary health care services at the AAMs, which are essentially upgraded Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs). The CHOs have been on a strike across the State since April 10. In Prakasam district, the CHOs took out a huge rally and staged an innovative protest by performing yoga asanas at Church Centre in Ongole on Friday. M. Rajesh, vice president of APMCA and a CHO from Dornala mandal in the district, demanded the revival of EPFO for their job security.
