National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP)

Latest News

• New Competency-Based Curricula: The Union Health Ministry, in collaboration with NCAHP, launched updated curricula for 10 allied healthcare professions (e.g., medical technologists, physiotherapists). This initiative aims to standardize education, align training with global best practices, and enhance workforce readiness.

About NCAHP

• Establishment: Created as a statutory body under the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Act, 2021.

• Mandate: Regulate and standardize education, training, and practice of allied and healthcare professionals to ensure quality care nationwide.

• Scope: Covers 56+ professions, including psychologists, occupational therapists, radiologists, and nutritionists.

Key Functions

1. Regulation & Standardization:

   • Accreditation: Evaluate and approve educational institutions and training programs.

   • Registration: Maintain a national registry of qualified practitioners.

   • Ethical Guidelines: Enforce codes of conduct and professional ethics.

2. Education & Training:

   • Develop competency-based curricula (e.g., recent launch for 10 professions).

   • Promote use of modern technologies and evidence-based practices.

3. Continuous Professional Development:

   • Facilitate lifelong learning through workshops, certifications, and skill upgrades.

4. Research & Policy Advocacy:

   • Conduct studies to inform healthcare reforms and workforce planning.

   • Advise governments on allied health sector policies.

5. Central Repository:

   • Serve as a hub for information on standards, career pathways, and regulatory requirements.

Objectives

• Enhance Healthcare Quality: Ensure practitioners meet national standards of competence and ethics.

• Safeguard Public Health: Protect patients by eliminating unqualified practitioners.

• Bridge Skill Gaps: Align training with evolving healthcare needs (e.g., geriatric care, digital health).

• Promote Equity: Improve access to skilled allied health professionals in rural and underserved areas.

Impact on Healthcare System

• Improved Patient Outcomes: Standardized training reduces errors and enhances service delivery.

• Workforce Strengthening: Creates a pipeline of skilled professionals to support doctors and nurses.

• Global Recognition: Aligning with international benchmarks boosts India’s healthcare credibility.

• Innovation: Encourages adoption of AI, telemedicine, and other tech-driven solutions in allied health.

Key Takeaways

• Transformative Initiative: The 2021 Act institutionalizes India’s commitment to formalizing the allied health sector.

• Holistic Approach: Combines education reform, continuous learning, and policy advocacy to address systemic gaps.

• Future-Ready Workforce: Updated curricula and tech integration prepare professionals for emerging challenges like pandemics and non-communicable diseases.

FAQs

1. What is NCAHP’s primary role?

   • Ans: Regulate education and practice standards for allied healthcare professionals.

2. When was NCAHP established?

   • Ans: 2021 (via the NCAHP Act).

3. How does NCAHP improve healthcare?

   • Ans: By ensuring skilled, ethical practitioners, leading to better patient care and system efficiency.