The National Health Mission (NHM) Odisha conducts the Community Health Officer (CHO) Exam to recruit qualified candidates for healthcare services in the state. This exam is a great opportunity for individuals aspiring to work in the public health sector and contribute to rural healthcare development.
In this article, we will cover all the essential aspects of the NHM Odisha CHO Exam, including eligibility criteria, application process, syllabus, exam pattern, preparation tips, and career prospects.
About NHM Odisha CHO Exam
The NHM Odisha CHO Exam is conducted to recruit Community Health Officers who play a crucial role in strengthening the healthcare system in rural areas. CHOs work at Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs) to provide primary healthcare services, promote preventive healthcare, and implement government health programs.
The recruitment process is carried out by NHM Odisha under the Health & Family Welfare Department, Government of Odisha. The exam is competitive, and candidates must prepare thoroughly to secure a position.
Eligibility Criteria for NHM Odisha CHO Exam
Before applying for the NHM Odisha CHO Exam, candidates must check whether they meet the eligibility criteria set by NHM Odisha.
1. Educational Qualification
Candidates must have one of the following qualifications.
- B.Sc. Nursing or Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing with an integrated Certificate in Community Health (CCH) from a recognized institute/university.
- Candidates who have completed a General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) course with additional certification in Community Health may also be eligible.
- Registration with the Odisha Nursing Council is mandatory.
2. Age Limit
- The minimum age requirement is 21 years, and the maximum age limit is usually 35 years (varies as per government norms).
- Age relaxation is applicable for candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/PWD categories as per Odisha government rules.
3. Nationality
The candidate must be an Indian citizen and a resident of Odisha.
Application Process for NHM Odisha CHO Exam
The application process for the NHM Odisha CHO Exam is conducted online. Candidates must follow these steps to apply.
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official website of NHM Odisha
to check the latest recruitment notifications.
Step 2: Register and Fill Out the Application Form
- Click on the CHO recruitment link and complete the online registration.
- Fill in personal details, educational qualifications, and contact information.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Candidates need to upload scanned copies of the following documents.
- Passport-size photograph and signature.
- Educational certificates and mark sheets.
- Domicile certificate
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Nursing Council registration certificate
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
- Candidates must pay the application fee online via debit card, credit card, or net banking.
- Fee details will be mentioned in the official notification.
Step 5: Submit the Application
- Verify all details before submitting the application.
- Take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.
NHM Odisha CHO Exam Pattern
Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. The NHM Odisha CHO Exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) covering various healthcare topics.
Exam Structure
- Mode of Exam: Online (Computer-Based Test) or Offline (Pen & Paper)
- Total Questions: 100 MCQs
- Total Marks: 100 (1 mark per question)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Negative Marking: No negative marking for wrong answers
Subject-Wise Weightage
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
| Anatomy & Physiology | 10 | 10 |
| Community Health Nursing | 15 | 15 |
| Child Health Nursing | 10 | 10 |
| Midwifery & Obstetrics | 15 | 15 |
| Pharmacology | 10 | 10 |
| Nutrition | 10 | 10 |
| Pathology & Microbiology | 10 | 10 |
| General Knowledge | 10 | 10 |
| Mental Health Nursing | 10 | 10 |
Candidates must focus on these subjects to maximize their scores on the exam.
Syllabus for NHM Odisha CHO Exam
A clear understanding of the syllabus helps candidates prepare effectively. The NHM Odisha CHO Exam syllabus includes.
1. Anatomy & Physiology
- Structure and functions of the human body.
- Circulatory, respiratory, nervous, and endocrine systems.
2. Community Health Nursing
- Primary healthcare concepts.
- National Health Programs (NHM, RCH, Immunization).
- Healthcare policies and rural health missions
3. Child Health Nursing
- Growth and development of children.
- Common childhood diseases and their management.
- Immunization schedule
4. Midwifery & Obstetrics
- Pregnancy and antenatal care.
- Labor and delivery.
- Postnatal care and newborn care.
5. Pharmacology
- Essential drugs and their uses.
- Drug administration and dosage calculations
6. Nutrition
- Balanced diet and nutritional deficiencies.
- Diet for different age groups
7. Pathology & Microbiology
- Common infections and their prevention.
- Diagnostic procedures in healthcare
8. General Knowledge
- Current affairs (national and international).
- General science and healthcare-related news
9. Mental Health Nursing
- Common mental disorders.
- Psychiatric nursing and patient care
Preparation Tips for NHM Odisha CHO Exam
To crack the NHM Odisha CHO Exam, candidates must follow a strategic preparation plan. Here are some effective tips.
1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
- Go through the syllabus thoroughly.
- Focus on important topics with higher weightage.
2. Create a Study Plan
- Allocate time for each subject and revise regularly.
- Set daily or weekly goals to track progress.
3. Refer to Standard Books and Study Material
- Use NCERT books for anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology.
- Refer to nursing textbooks like Brunner & Suddarth’s Medical-Surgical Nursing and Dutta’s Obstetrics & Gynaecology.
4. Solve Previous Year Question Papers
- Practicing past papers helps students understand question patterns.
- Identify weak areas and work on them.
5. Take Mock Tests
- Attempt online mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
- Analyze performance and improve accordingly.
6. Stay Updated with Current Affairs
- Read newspapers and healthcare-related news.
- Follow government health programs and policies.
7. Revise Regularly
- Revise key concepts frequently to retain information.
- Use flashcards and notes for quick revision.
Admit Card and Exam Day Guidelines
How to Download the Admit Card?
- Visit the official website of NHM Odisha.
- Click on the CHO Admit Card link
- Enter login credentials and download the admit card.
- Take a printout for the exam day.
Exam Day Guidelines
- Carry a printed copy of the admit card and proof of valid ID.
- Arrive at the exam center well before time.
- Follow COVID-19 safety protocols if required.
- Do not carry electronic gadgets inside the exam hall.
Result and Selection Process
How do you check the NHM Odisha CHO Exam result?
- Visit the NHM Odisha website.
- Click on the result link and enter login details.
- Download and check your score.
Selection Process
- Candidates are selected based on exam performance and document verification.
- A merit list is prepared, and shortlisted candidates undergo training before joining as CHOs.
Career Growth and Salary of NHM Odisha CHO
Salary Structure
- The salary for NHM Odisha CHOs ranges from ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 per month.
- Additional performance-based incentives may be provided.
Career Growth
CHOs can be promoted to Senior CHO, Medical Officer, or Health Program Coordinator based on experience and performance.
Conclusion
The NHM Odisha CHO Exam is a great opportunity for nursing graduates to build a rewarding career in public health. With proper preparation and dedication, candidates can secure a position as a Community Health Officer and contribute to improving healthcare services in Odisha.
Start your preparation today and take a step towards a fulfilling career in community healthcare!
