Abstract:
In the present context of medical treatments, Ayurveda is influential among
the general public in many ways. It was noted that existing Ayurveda
treatments by Health Work Assistants have led to a chaotic situation
requiring considerable empirical investigation. This study intended to
uncover the significant role of Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
along with the knowledge and skills of Health Work Assistants (HWA) in
order to improve the service quality of HWA at government Ayurveda
hospitals. The qualitative case study design was adapted to unveil multiple
realities from the natural setting. Data were collected from 25 HWAs and 12
medical officer in-charges using semi-structured interviews. The verbatim
transcribed interviewed data from both respondent groups were analysed
using the content analysis method. Findings revealed unclear criteria of the
recruitment and selection process, political intervention, and uneven
distribution of knowledge and skills of HWA are the causes behind poor
service. Although HWAs’ training and the skill-building process have taken
place through on-the-job training, peer group and off-the-job training,
consistent and formally established CPDs are not found. The findings
intensify the inevitability of appropriate policies on the recruitment and
selection process and regular CPD to enhance the knowledge and skills for
improving service quality. Further, the study revealed that many of HWAs
are currently engaged with more responsible duties other than their duties
assigned by the appointment letter. Responsibilities and services beyond the
formal duties intensify the CPD of HWA inevitably
