AHMEDABAD: Dr Snehal Parmar, currently posted as surveillance medical officer (SMO) in Uttar Pradesh with the World Health Organization (WHO), is one of the seven graduates of master in public health (MPH) from Indian Institute of Public Health, Gandhinagar (IIPH-G), who were picked up by the global agency.
Having BDS degree before MPH, Dr Parmar also worked in Gujarat and Rajasthan including during the pandemic.
“Currently I’m working with the National Public Health Surveillance Project of the government of India and overseeing two districts – Basti and Sant Kabir Nagar.
Up to two years back, WHO or UNDP would not take a BDS graduate, but Covid-19 has created awareness about the importance of public health.
It’s a great chance for professionals like us,” he said.
‘Pandemic brought public health in focus’Apart from the seven grads, two others have got recruited by UNDP – another international agency of repute – from IIPH-G.
In addition, several others were picked by state governments for their health-related projects in the wake of the pandemic.
Prof Dileep Mavalankar, director of IIPH-G, said pandemic brought public health into sharp focus, and spiked demand for experts.
“Our highest package has more than doubled compared to last year, whereas median pay package has increased by 50%.
It indicates a rise in demand.” Industry experts said that the WHO-like international organizations offer packages of about Rs15 lakh per annum.
The amount may vary based on location and roles offered.
Average starting salary for public health experts is around Rs 4.8 lakh to Rs 7.2 lakh per annum, said experts.
Prof Mavalankar said that the admission process for hospital management course is still going on.
“Compared to 2-3 applications we receive annually from MBBS graduates, this year we have received 12.
We believe it’s a clear effect of the pandemic,” he said.
“The trend is likely to continue for a year.” Healthcare professionals remained one of the top gainers during pandemic with a sudden spike in demand.
Hospitals said that on an average, the staff has received 20-25% rise right from specialists to the sweepers.
Covid windfall: Public health grads picked up by WHO, UNDP
