SCHOOL HEALTH PROGRAM - Dhulikhel Hospital

All of the health-related causal factors can be prevented through behavior change even in low resources settings. With this view, DCP is currently conducting regular school health programs in 24 schools around 14 health centres of Kavrepalanchowk, Sindhupalchowk, Kathmandu, and Bhaktapur districts. The program is led by nurses who provide awareness programs on different health issues such as adolescent reproductive health, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs, first aid training, and screening services. Trained nurses of DCP visit health centres to provide health education. Regular screening of school children in coordination was conducted in coordination with the Departments of Paediatrics, Dental, Ear, Nose and Throat, Ophthalmology, Physiotherapy, and other departments

DCP has also been conducting several school-based researches for understanding different health perspectives for broadening the framework of health issues and planning for required interventions that are implemented accordingly.

The main objectives of the program are to

(i) provide preventive and promotive health programs;

(ii) conduct regular screening

(iii) to ensure a healthy environment for children at school

(iv) to provide guidance for the establishment and maintenance of health clubs in the school.

The upcoming future target of the school health program in DCP is to establish adolescent-friendly centres at health centres and to activate and mobilize actively the school health clubs in health-related activities.