UNICEF India, IIHMR Delhi, and IIT Mumbai introduce a course on digital health.

A comprehensive health course called the “Digital Health Enterprise Planning Course” has been jointly launched by UNICEF India, IIHMR Delhi, and IIT Bombay. It is scheduled to begin on April 17, 2024, and is designed to equip healthcare professionals—such as physicians, nurses, pharmacists, administrators, and allied health professionals—with the knowledge and abilities needed to spearhead the digital transformation of the healthcare industry. Enrollment is also welcomed from those working in policymaking, IT, and healthcare technology implementation.

With this project, UNICEF India is taking a big step toward realizing its commitment to the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH), which was introduced in 2023 during India’s G20 Presidency and aims to improve healthcare delivery by leveraging digital technologies effectively in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the GIDH.

“The digital health course launched by IIHMR, 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,” stressed Cynthia Mc Caffrey, UNICEF India Representative, in her remarks at the course launch.

The 10-week course, which consists of nine modules addressing several crucial aspects of digital health implementation, was created to address the growing need for healthcare workers to fill in training gaps and fulfill the growing demand for education on digital health. It starts with explaining how digital technology and healthcare are related, and it goes on to discuss the planning, integrating, carrying out, and potential outcomes of digital health efforts.

“By equipping healthcare professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge, this course will enhance their competence to adapt to the digital era and optimize healthcare delivery systems across India, particularly in underserved communities,” said Prof. Sutapa B. Neogi, Director of IIHMR Delhi.

The course curriculum was created with technical assistance from UNICEF India and in conjunction with specialists from IIHMR Delhi, IIT Bombay. It was modified for the Indian environment from a worldwide program provided by the Digital Health Centre of Excellence (DICE), which is jointly run by UNICEF and WHO.

“The launch of this digital health course is a testament to the collaborative efforts towards building a robust digital health ecosystem in India,” said Dr. Santosh Noronha of IIT Bombay.

Using a hybrid methodology, the course combines virtual lectures, interactive discussions, online modules, and practical workshops. The instructors, who are academicians and seasoned digital health professionals, improve learning through networking, case studies, group projects, and knowledge exchange.