Human resource development planning for sustainable health and population programmes
Adhikari, S.P.
Nepal Population and Development Journal 1997(Spec No): 88-97
1997
PMID: 12293771 Document Number: 274781
This article identifies the need for human resource development planning (HRDP) in population and health programs in Nepal. Sustainable development depends upon balancing human numbers, resources, and quality of life. Development strategies must be sensitive to health and population strategies. Health and population strategies must reflect HRDP. Health and population fields tend to intensively use human resources. Health and population manpower need to be managed cost effectively yet meet the development goal of a more accessible, more equitable, and more effective health care and family planning (FP) delivery system. Manpower planning is affected by the type and quality of education, the workplace, and the organization of health and FP manpower. FP entails three processes: planning, production, and management. The former classical approach of FP entailed institutions, sophisticated technology, and specialized manpower. The classical approach did not work. Governments had difficulty finding sufficient funds for investment. Human resources were an untapped source of community and national development. Health and FP manpower should have a variety of skills and knowledge that are complementary at the national and community level. Manpower planning should be responsive to the needs of the health system, the clients, and workers in an intersectoral system. FP workers need to receive training in how to be sensitive to those in greatest need. A functional information system is basic to manpower planning.