Acknowledging certifications like NQAS and Kayakalp with genuine appreciation boosts morale, promotes unity, and inspires continued excellence among healthcare workers
By Dr Fazal Wani
It is deeply disappointing to witness how our Health Department overlooks the achievements that truly deserve recognition. The National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certifications and District Kayakalp Awards are milestones that reflect months, if not years, of teamwork, dedication, and commitment by our staff at various levels. Yet, these remarkable accomplishments pass almost unnoticed within our own system. When the time came to acknowledge these accomplishments, the felicitation for our department was merely incorporated into the programme of other departments. Such an approach may appear convenient, but it diminishes the true spirit of appreciation
When a department fails to value its own success stories, how can we expect appreciation or acknowledgement from others? The NQAS certification is not merely a certificate; it symbolises the collective hard work of doctors, nurses, CHOs, ANMs, pharmacists, housekeeping staff and support staff who have consistently gone beyond their defined duties to uphold the quality and dignity of healthcare delivery, often in challenging and resource-limited conditions.
If there are financial or logistical limitations to hosting a separate felicitation event, a simple yet modest ceremony can often offer what an elaborate one cannot- genuine respect, unity, and encouragement. A few heartfelt words of appreciation in the presence of colleagues can leave a lasting impact on morale and can motivate them to work with more dedication.
When all cadres of health workers: doctors, pharmacists, CHOs, and ANMs come together in such gatherings, it not only honours those who achieved these milestones but also inspires others to work harder, set higher goals, and bring similar pride to their institutions. The NQAS and Kayakalp awards should serve as a motivation for others to aim for excellence and continuous improvement.
What adds to the irony is that our higher authorities always emphasise the importance of achieving these certifications and put immense pressure on the staff to make these programmes successful. But when it comes to celebrating and felicitating those very achievements, the same level of effort and seriousness is rarely seen. A small gesture of acknowledgement from leadership can go a long way in boosting morale and reinforcing faith in the system.
Recognition is not about grandeur or expense; it is about respect, belonging, and encouragement. Appreciating the staff of the respective Health facilities that have earned these honours is not just a formality; it is a moral obligation and a powerful way to motivate others.
The intention behind writing this piece is not to criticise, but an earnest appeal to our Health Department to organise a separate felicitation ceremony for its achievers. Such recognition may seem small, but it carries immense value. It uplifts spirits, strengthens teamwork, and reminds every health worker that their contribution matters.
The strength of any department lies in how it uplifts and values its own people. If we begin to honour our achievers today, we will build a culture of motivation, pride, and excellence for tomorrow. Recognition must begin at home within our own department, among our own people.
The writer is a Medical Officer at PHC Shargole
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