Table 2

Description of healthcare provider cadres' roles and responsibilities

Healthcare worker cadreLevel of trainingRoles and responsibilities
Clinical Officer3 years Diploma
  • Identify and treat common diseases and perform minor surgeries

  • Participate in the planning and implementation of basic health services

  • Keep records of equipment and tools for offering services

  • Keep records, prepare and provide implementation report

  • Supervise performance of subordinate health staff

Nurse3 years Diploma
  • Provide nursing care to all clients in the catchment area served by their facility

  • Collect vital health statistics

  • Direct and supervise subordinate nurses

  • Provide counselling

  • Provide services to patients at home

  • Provide preventive and childbirth services

Medical attendant1-year Certificate
  • Clean equipment, wards and the surrounding environment

  • Help patients with disabilities to use toilet and shower

  • To feed patients who need support

  • Take patient samples to the laboratory for testing and monitor results

  • Prepare materials for cleaning and close wounds

  • Follow-up patients' medication requirements from drug store

  • Source: Human Resource Development Circular No. 1 of 2009 scheme of service for health worker cadres under the Tanzania Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.