| Three general categories of medical auxiliary can be defined: (1)the "monovalent auxiliary" - trained for a single function or specific functions in relation to a specific disease (e.g., yellow fever vaccinator); (2)the "polyvalent auxiliary" - the multipurpose worker (e.g., dispensary auxiliary); and (3)the "basic health worker" - the elementary, all-purpose worker at the village level. In many countries with well-developed systems of auxiliary health manpower the pattern of auxiliary types and grades is similar; it indicates trends in two directions: (1)the evolution from the era of untrained attendants, through the era of single-purpose workers, to the era of multipurpose auxiliaries; and (2)the gradual upgrading of standards in educational levels. For most health situations, experience shows that auxiliaries can be trained to provide a number of fkills, and that multipurpose workers can adapt much more readily to rapidiy changing circumstances. Each country must predetermine exactly what types and grades of auxiliaries it needs and precisely what duties, skills, and responsibilities will be required of such persons. Auxiliary status in the health personnel hierarchy and opportunities for promotion also need to be determined. A discussion of the auxiliary in the Nigerian military system emphasizes the advantages of its hierarchical structure and well-organized but flexible training programme. |