Tseminyu: Located along National Highway-61, connecting Kohima-Tseminyu-Wokha, Chunlikha Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Tseminyu district stands out as one of Nagaland’s finest healthcare facilities.
As one steps into the hospital compound, the vibrant ambience immediately catches the eye. To the right of the entrance, a dedicated children’s play area adds a welcoming touch, setting a unique tone for a government health facility. However, what truly stands out is the exceptional cleanliness, including the hospital’s toilets—comparable to those in airports. When you step inside the PHC, one side of the wall immediately catches the eye. Dr Cheyale Kath, the medical officer (MO) in charge, proudly referred to it as the “Wall of Fame” during a conversation with EastMojo, a tribute to the facility’s achievements and dedication.
Several certificates adorn the wall, one notable one being an award presented in 2019 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The award recognised Chunlikha PHC for its outstanding efforts in promoting cleanliness, hygiene, and infection control, leading to improved healthcare services.
Pointing to a framed certificate on the wall, Dr Kath said, “This award was presented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in 2019, recognising Chunlikha PHC for our efforts in promoting cleanliness, hygiene, and infection control”. The award lauded the PHC for its contribution to improving quality healthcare.
The PHC reached another milestone in 2023 when it earned certification under the National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS), a distinction valid until 2026. Dr Kath shared that such recognitions have not only bolstered the facility’s reputation but have also helped secure essential funding. These funds have played a crucial role in maintaining the PHC’s high-quality standards, ensuring better healthcare services for the community.
Despite Tseminyu attaining full-fledged district status, the health sector remains under Kohima district’s jurisdiction. Among the three PHCs in the present Tseminyu district, Chunlikha PHC has consistently garnered state and district-level awards for its commitment to quality healthcare.
Established in the 1960s, the PHC continues to stand strong, serving the community with 30 dedicated staff, including four nurses and two doctors. The facility provides services, including outpatient department (OPD) consultations, child delivery, 24×7 emergency care, laboratory tests, immunisation, diabetes clinics, and adolescent outreach programs. The facility also provides first aid to road traffic accident victims along the highway.
With an average monthly patient footfall of 300, the PHC primarily has been catering to elderly patients mostly above 60 years of age, among other age groups. Seasonal flu and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) constitute the most common cases.
The facility takes pride in its bio-medical waste management system, duly authorised by the Nagaland Pollution Control Board. Dr Kath also shared that the PHC staff have cultivated Yongchak (stinky bean) trees, using the proceeds from their sale to purchase essential kitchen supplies, showcasing their resourcefulness and commitment to sustainability.
The PHC also extends its services beyond district boundaries, attending to patients from neighbouring Pughoboto under the Zunheboto district, some of whom hire taxis for healthcare visits. She said an annual activity of the PHC is conducting school health camps thrice a year in the village. Monthly health and sanitation exercises in the village are also conducted by the staff at the PHC.
However, in critical situations, patients are referred to hospitals in Kohima for advanced treatment.
Despite its many achievements, the PHC faces challenges, including a shortage of nurses and the pressing need for an additional medical officer. However, Dr Kath emphasised that, with the dedicated staff currently available, they manage to operate the hospital through a round-the-clock roster system, ensuring continuous care for the community.
The PHC, despite its efforts, has its own limitations. With restricted infrastructure and resources, it can only provide basic healthcare services, leaving residents with no choice but to travel long distances for specialised treatment.
The absence of a district hospital further adds to the situation, highlighting the need for upgraded medical facilities in Tseminyu. The lone Community Health Centre (CHC) in Tseminyu struggles to cater to the entire district, leaving residents with limited access to advanced medical care.
According to data from the Rengma Selo Zi (RSZ), the apex youth body of the Rengma community, Tseminyu District spans 256 square kilometres. It is home to a population of 63,269, as recorded in the 2011 Census. The RSZ has been vocal about the urgent need for better healthcare infrastructure, particularly advocating for upgrading the lone Community Health Centre (CHC) to a full-fledged district hospital.
Despite repeated appeals, including a formal representation submitted to the state government, no concrete steps have been taken.
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