In 2019, the Odisha Health Systems Strengthening Program, a four-year collaborative effort, was initiated by the Health System Transformation Platform (HSTP) in collaboration with the Government of Odisha and the Tata Trusts. The collaborative effort is intended to improve Odisha's health system to provide affordable and equitable access to quality care for its population while avoiding significant financial risks and improving citizen satisfaction. A health system diagnostic study in Odisha was conducted, which identified Primary Health Care Provider's competence as an area that needs improvement.
The Medical Laboratory Technologist/ Technician is one of the essential members of the primary health care team. Hence, strengthening this cadre competency would play a significant role in improving primary health care performance. HSTP has collaborated with the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhubaneswar to conduct the Competency Assessment of in-service medical laboratory technicians in primary health care facilities in Odisha, as a state partner.