LHV stands for Lady Health Visitor, a vital role in the healthcare system, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan. LHVs are trained healthcare professionals who provide primary healthcare services, focusing on maternal and child health. They play a crucial role in delivering community-based healthcare, often serving in rural or underserved areas.
Lady Health Visitors (LHV) (02 years Diploma Program).
Qualification: Applicant must meet one of the following academic levels
FSc (Pre-Medical) with 45% marks minimum (Physics, Chemistry & Biology as compulsory subjects)
Matric (Science) with 45 % marks minimum (Physics, Chemistry & Biology as compulsory subjects)
Age Limit: 14-35 yearsA Lady Health Visitor (LHV) plays a crucial role in the healthcare system, particularly in community health. Her duties typically involve a range of responsibilities aimed at improving the health and well-being of individuals and families within the community. Here’s a broad overview of the role and its key duties:
Role of a Lady Health Visitor
Community Health Education: LHVs educate the community about health practices, preventive measures, and healthy lifestyles. They conduct workshops and seminars on topics like nutrition, hygiene, maternal and child health, and family planning.
Home Visits: They visit families in their homes to provide direct health care services, assess living conditions, and offer guidance on maintaining a healthy environment.
Maternal and Child Health: LHVs focus on the health of mothers and children. They monitor the health of pregnant women, newborns, and young children, providing advice on breastfeeding, vaccination, and growth monitoring.
Health Promotion: They promote health initiatives and programs designed to prevent diseases and improve overall health standards within the community.
Coordination with Other Health Services: LHVs often work in coordination with other healthcare professionals and services, referring patients to hospitals or specialized services when necessary.
Duties of a Lady Health Visitor
Health Assessments: Conduct health assessments for individuals, especially pregnant women, newborns, and young children, including monitoring growth and development.
Vaccination Programs: Administer vaccines and educate parents on the importance of immunizations.
Counseling and Support: Provide counseling on various health issues, including family planning, prenatal care, and postnatal care. Offer emotional support to families dealing with health concerns.
Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of visits, health assessments, and patient progress. This helps in tracking health trends and planning further interventions.
Community Outreach: Engage with the community to raise awareness about health issues and available services. Participate in community health campaigns and programs.
Emergency Response: Offer first aid and emergency care in urgent situations and coordinate with emergency services if required.
Health Promotion Activities: Organize and lead health promotion activities such as health fairs, screening programs, and wellness workshops.
Collaboration with Local Health Workers: Work closely with other local health workers, including doctors, nurses, and social workers, to ensure a holistic approach to community health.
Data Collection and Reporting: Collect data on health metrics and prepare reports for health departments or agencies to help in planning and improving health services.
Training and Mentoring: Sometimes involved in training and mentoring junior health workers or community health volunteers.
Overall, the role of a Lady Health Visitor is integral to enhancing public health, especially in underserved areas, by providing essential health services, education, and support at the community level