UNICEF India, the International Institute of Health Management Research (IIHMR) Delhi, and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) jointly launched a comprehensive health course.
The course, which was launched on Wednesday, will be rolled out from April 17. The ‘Digital Health Enterprise Planning Course’ will equip healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, healthcare administrators, and allied health professionals, with the skills to support the digital transformation of the healthcare sector, a UNICEF India statement said.
Policymakers, IT professionals, and individuals involved in healthcare technology implementation can also take the course.
The course is a major step towards fulfilling UNICEF India’s commitment to the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH), launched during India’s G20 Presidency in 2023.
Delivering the keynote address, Cynthia Mc Caffrey, UNICEF India Representative, said, “The digital health course launched by IIHM, IIT Mumbai, and UNICEF today builds on India’s commitment to promote digital innovation in the health system by equipping healthcare professionals with cutting-edge skills and leveraging digital technologies. The course catalyses innovative solutions, strengthening healthcare delivery across the country and helping accelerate reach to the last child.”
The course is designed to address the growing demand for digital health education and to bridge the gap in training among healthcare professionals. The 10-week course includes nine modules and covers a range of topics crucial to digital health implementation.
Sutapa B. Neogi (Director), IIHMR Delhi said, “Many health professionals lack the necessary training and education in digital technology to effectively utilise digital health tools and navigate the complexities associated with its implementation. By equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge, this course will enhance their competence to adapt to the digital era and optimise healthcare delivery systems across India, particularly in underserved communities.”
Meanwhile, Prof. Santosh Noronha from the Tata Centre for Technology and Design, IIT Mumbai, said, “The launch of this digital health course is a testament to the collaborative efforts towards building a robust digital health ecosystem in India. By empowering healthcare professionals with digital skills, we are paving the way for a healthier and more inclusive future.”
The course adopts a blended approach, incorporating online modules, virtual lectures, interactive discussions, and hands-on workshops.
