Should Healthcare Practitioners in Nepal Stay or Leave?

Healthcare practitioners in Nepal are struggling with a profound dilemma: should they stay and work in their homeland, or should they seek opportunities abroad? On one hand, there's a deep emotional connection to serving the Nepalese people, honed by years of study and professional dedication. On the other hand, the healthcare governance system in Nepal often feels stifling, unresponsive to innovation, and underappreciative of expertise and contributions. This confusion is exacerbated when peers move abroad, enjoying better lifestyles and professional environments, prompting many to consider following suit. However, the reality in high-resource countries may not always align with the rosy depictions seen online and on social media.

This article delves into the primary hindrances faced by healthcare practitioners, paramedics, and professionals in Nepal, and explores actionable strategies to navigate these challenges while finding fulfillment in their roles within a resource-limited country.

1. Navigating Governmental Processes

 Upon entering the workforce, especially in government settings, healthcare practitioners must deal with extensive administrative tasks that go beyond their technical training. Understanding the governance model, federalism, roles of various government levels, institutional structures, procurement systems, and legal nuances is crucial. Unfortunately, medical education often neglects these areas, leaving practitioners ill-prepared.

Continuous professional development programs focusing on administrative skills, governance, and legal frameworks should be implemented. Practitioners can also seek mentorship from experienced colleagues and engage in workshops or short courses to bridge these knowledge gaps.

2. Developing Skills for Supplementary Income

Medical professionals often focus solely on their studies, missing out on opportunities to develop side incomes. With minimal salaries from government or private institutions, managing personal finances becomes a significant struggle.

Encouraging medical students and professionals to explore side ventures during their studies can be beneficial. Online freelancing, consulting, or even part-time teaching can provide supplementary income. Institutions should facilitate entrepreneurial workshops and provide resources on financial management.

3. Enhancing Technological Proficiency

The rapid advancement of technology often leaves healthcare curricula lagging. Students and practitioners may feel left behind, despite their academic prowess, due to insufficient technological skills.

Universities and institutions need to integrate technology training into their curricula. Offering courses on medical software, data analysis tools, and digital healthcare solutions can help bridge this gap. Additionally, self-paced online courses and certifications in relevant technologies can be pursued.

4. Building Research Competence

Research is integral to evidence-based practice, yet it is often seen as an extra burden in Nepal. Clinicians lacking research skills may find themselves disadvantaged in professional settings.

Encouraging a research culture within medical institutions is essential. This includes providing training in research methodologies, offering incentives for research activities, and fostering collaborations with academic and research institutions. Practitioners should also be encouraged to publish their findings and engage in continuous learning.

5. Gaining Financial Literacy

While healthcare professionals know how to earn, they often lack the knowledge of personal finance management, including investing, trading, and navigating fiscal policies.

Financial literacy programs tailored for healthcare professionals can be highly beneficial. Institutions can organize workshops on personal finance, investing, and taxation. Additionally, online resources and courses can provide the necessary knowledge for financial management.

6. Addressing Comparison and Lifestyle Expectations

Comparing oneself to peers abroad can create dissatisfaction and urge practitioners to leave Nepal. The allure of a better lifestyle often overshadows the challenges faced in foreign healthcare systems.

Practitioners should focus on building a fulfilling career within Nepal by leveraging their expertise to bring about change. Emphasizing the impact of their work on local communities and seeking professional satisfaction through contribution and innovation can help mitigate the desire to emigrate.

7. Understanding Intercultural Differences and Cultural Rigidity

Nepal's rich cultural diversity can be both a strength and a challenge. Cultural rigidity and lack of understanding can lead to frustration and discontent among healthcare professionals.

Promoting cultural competence and flexibility is crucial. Training programs on intercultural communication and sensitivity can help practitioners navigate the diverse cultural landscape of Nepal. Embracing and respecting cultural differences can enhance personal and professional satisfaction.

8. Overcoming a Sense of Entitlement

The educational system often instills a sense of entitlement, leading to unrealistic expectations regarding respect and job roles.

Fostering a culture of humility and continuous learning can help mitigate this sense of entitlement. Encouraging professionals to engage in all aspects of healthcare, including administrative and menial tasks, can build a more resilient and adaptable workforce.

Conclusion

While the challenges faced by healthcare practitioners in Nepal are significant, they are not insurmountable. By addressing gaps in knowledge, skills, and attitudes, practitioners can find fulfillment and success within their homeland. Embracing continuous learning, leveraging opportunities for supplementary income, and fostering a culture of innovation and research can pave the way for a rewarding career in Nepal’s healthcare sector.