Full formMedical & Health
CHOstands forCommunity Health Officer
Full Form of CHO
What is CHO?
A Community Health Officer (CHO) is a mid-level healthcare provider introduced by the Government of India under the Ayushman Bharat programme in 2018. CHOs are posted at Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs), which are upgraded Sub-Health Centres, to deliver comprehensive primary healthcare closer to rural communities. Their role includes preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative services, managing non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health, and emergency care. Typically, a CHO is a nurse (B.Sc. Nursing or GNM) who completes a six-month bridge programme in Community Health. They are empowered to prescribe a limited set of medicines and perform basic procedures. The CHO is a key link between the community and higher-level facilities, reducing the burden on Primary Health Centres. For students preparing for nursing, public health, or civil services exams, the CHO concept is frequently tested under questions on Ayushman Bharat and primary healthcare reforms. Understanding the CHO's role is essential for grasping India's push toward universal health coverage.
CHO का फुल फॉर्म
सामुदायिक स्वास्थ्य अधिकारी
Example
The CHO at our local Health and Wellness Centre conducted a screening camp for diabetes and hypertension last week.
CHO — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of CHO?
The full form of CHO is Community Health Officer.
What is the qualification required to become a CHO in India?
A candidate must be a B.Sc. Nursing or General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) graduate and complete a six-month bridge course in Community Health.
What is the salary of a CHO in India?
A Community Health Officer typically earns between ₹25,000 to ₹40,000 per month, depending on the state and experience, under the National Health Mission.