Training Health Care Workers in the use of new Technologies By Shubha Varma, Nexleaf Analytics and Denisse Ruiz, Nexleaf Analytics Integrating new technology is often key to modernizing health supply chains. However, introducing new devices and protocols to healthcare workers can present many challenges. Workforce ability to interact with and respond to new technology is often the missing link between innovation and impact. Nexleaf has deployed over 14,000 devices in 8 countries in the health and climate change sectors and has trained many professionals on managing technology and responding to data. Based on this experience, Nexleaf suggesst best practices for technology training to avoid common pitfalls and ensure successful uptake of new technologies. Technology trainings should offer more than rote lectures on the features of a new gadget. Rather, they should emphasize how the technology is intended to serve healthcare workers and health systems goals. Focusing on people rather than the technology leads to greater personal investment from workers, increased technology uptake, and better outcomes.
importance, and it is also useful if trainees have questions beyond the scope of the technology.
Before Training
Conduct a Trainee Pre-Assessment Assess trainee language preference, educational profile, cultural sensitivity, and exposure to other technologies.
Ensure the technology training component has an adequate, designated time frame If the technology is being rolled out as part of a larger program, it is critical to ensure that a clearly delineated time slot is allocated for training workers on the technology specifically. Involve the Ministry of Health (MoH) Encourage MoH personnel to attend trainings. The MoH’s presence conveys the project’s
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Provide adequate accommodations and resources for trainees Group sizes should be limited to 25 to 30 health workers. Workers traveling to attend trainings should be fully informed of accommodations and logistics plans beforehand.
Generate a clear curriculum and print materials Prepare a training complete with any visuals (slides, videos) customized for the group. Plan to distribute materials for trainees to keep and reference in the future.