E-learning module launched for healthcare professionals

A new e-learning module has been launched by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), designed specifically for healthcare professionals.

The online course will help those working in the industry to understand the effects of violence on healthcare, their own rights and responsibilities, as well as the ethical dilemmas they may face when working amidst armed conflicts and emergencies.  

Bruce Eshaya-Chauvin, medical adviser of the ‘Health Care in Danger’ project, commented: "With this module, we aim to reach out to health-care personnel across the globe. Anyone connected to internet can use or download the module, which includes interviews with experts in the field, learning activities and other media."

The ICRC-led project has been designed to improve the efficiency and delivery of healthcare in places in the world were armed conflicts and national emergencies are likely to happen.

In addition to the ICRC, the International Council of Nurses, the World Medical Association, the International Pharmaceutical Federation and the International Committee on Military Medicine have contributed their expertise to the e-learning module and will promote it to their members.

Dr. Xavier Deau, president of the World Medical Association, described the course as “an essential tool” that will bring clarity to everyone, while empowering healthcare professionals across the globe. He added that the e-learning module will allow the industry to have a better understanding of their roles in conflict zones and emergencies, as well as their rights.

Its intended audience is anyone involved in the delivery of healthcare, whether civilian or military, such as doctors, nurses, ambulance drivers and hospital administrators

Retired major general Dr Roger Van Hoof, secretary-general of the International Committee of Military Medicine, added: "The e-learning module will be an important tool not only for the health-care personnel of the military health services from all over the world who are confronted daily with these problems in high-risk conflict zones, but also to bring these problems to the attention of military and governmental authorities.”

The ICRC’s decision to release this learning module as an online course is testament to the versatility of e-learning as an educational resource. The course can be completed no matter where the healthcare professional is in the world and can be fitted in around existing commitments.