From Healthcare Professionals to Public Health Practitioners: Qualitative Assessment of the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health Management

Abstract

The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health Management (PGDPHM) was launched in 2008 to create a cadre of public health managers within the ranks of the public healthcare system. However, limited research exists on this programme and its impact on the health system. This qualitative research study aimed at obtaining in-depth perspectives of PGDPHM graduates from the Indian Institute of Public Health-Gandhinagar (IIPHG). Study participants were selected from a variety of roles across Gujarat. The programme equips healthcare professionals with several competencies essential to the management of public health issues from the community to state levels. However, the health system has yet to fully realise its potential and rationally allocate this human resource. Recognition also has not translated into public health oriented career growth for most graduates, and the duties of medical officers with this qualification continue to have a clinical focus. The PGDPHM programme has the potential to help ensure that India reaches an adequate capacity for health management professionals. It would be beneficial to improve recognition for the programme within the health system, increase focus on public health research and conduct regular evaluations to assess the career trajectories of graduates.