Community Health Extension Worker Salary in Nigeria (2023)

In the expansive realm of healthcare, one key player stands out for their indispensable contributions to community well-being in Nigeria – the community health extension workers. Operating primarily in primary healthcare centers (PHCs), these dedicated professionals play a crucial role in promoting health at the grassroots level. In this blog post, we’ll delve into their job description, training, and the crucial aspect of salary structure to provide valuable insights for aspiring individuals considering this noble career path.

Job Description and Scope of Operation:

Community health extension workers serve as essential healthcare professionals with a diverse range of responsibilities. From overseeing the treatment of terminally ill patients to focusing on preventive medicine, their impact is felt across rural communities in Nigeria, mainly through PHCs. These professionals contribute significantly to enhancing the health and longevity of community members.

Training and Expertise:

Armed with a combination of formal education and practical training, community health extension workers are highly skilled individuals capable of executing their duties with minimal supervision. Their training emphasizes dealing with terminally ill patients, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle the challenges of their role effectively.

Salary Structure:

Understanding the salary structure is pivotal for those considering a career as a community health extension worker in Nigeria. Salaries typically range from 60,000 Naira to 150,000 Naira per month, subject to variations based on factors such as experience, geographical location, and the type of healthcare facility.

Private clinics generally offer lower salaries, with some professionals earning as little as 40,000 Naira. Conversely, those employed in federal health facilities tend to receive higher salaries compared to counterparts in state and local health facilities.

Average Salary and Experience Levels:

On average, community health extension workers in Nigeria earn around 80,000 Naira per month, with this average observed among professionals with 4-9 years of experience. It’s crucial to note that individual earnings may vary based on several factors.

Entry-Level Salary:

For entry-level professionals with less than two years of experience, monthly salaries range from 60,000 Naira to 75,000 Naira. Private clinic employees in this category generally earn less than those working in government-owned hospitals.

Senior-Level Salary:

Senior-level community health extension workers, with 10 years or more of experience, enjoy the highest monthly salaries, starting from 175,000 Naira. It’s essential to consider specific circumstances that may lead to earnings surpassing this stated amount.

Conclusion:

Choosing a career as a community health extension worker involves careful consideration of various factors, with an understanding of the salary structure being pivotal. Aspiring individuals should weigh experience, location, and the nature of the healthcare facility carefully as they embark on a rewarding journey dedicated to community health.