Capacity building for evidence-based child health through digital platforms

Article type
Authors
Singh M1, Singh M1, Vorukolu S1, Pradhan P1, Singh P1, Jaiswal N1, Chauhan A1
1Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh
Abstract
Background:
Indian healthcare is experiencing a paradigm change and there is an emphasis on evidence-based medicine. Increased efforts are being made to build capacity amongst healthcare professionals and various modalities have been explored to reach healthcare professionals at the far areas
Objectives:
To build capacity in evidence-based child through the use of ECHO model and online courses
Methods:
The initiation of online sessions on evidence-based medicine conducted by partnering with Extension of Community Healthcare Outcomes to connect with medical colleges and medical research units in the North eastern region of the country. Sessions on evidence-based medicine were delivered through the ZOOM software under the project ECHO. These sessions were to develop the knowledge and expertise of the clinicians in the remote areas of north eastern region in the field of evidence-based medicine. The participants were subject to pre and post questionnaires to assess their knowledge, awareness and practises (KAP) in EBM.
Results:
The current online course had 49 participants enrolled for the period of one-year. The scientists involved in the delivery of online lectures were trained through 2-day workshop for use of ECHO & troubleshooting of any problems. During one course, 20% of the participants have written protocols and submitted for Prospero registrations. Two systematic reviews have been completed and submitted for publication. There was significant increase in the KAP as depicted by the analysis of the pre (mean score =11.71±0.62) & post questionnaires(mean score = 15.64±0.47).
Conclusions:
This can be a model that has a potential to be replicated all over the country and can be used for improving medical practises besides capacity building.