Ensuring excellence: Upskilling and regular assessments for healthcare professionals

Dr Girdhar Gyani, Director General, Association of Healthcare Providers (AHPI) talks about the role of upskilling and regular assessments for healthcare professionals

The healthcare sector stands as a vital pillar of our nation’s well-being. As we strive towards a healthier future for all, it becomes imperative to ensure our healthcare professionals are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to deliver the highest quality care. In this endeavor, two key strategies come to the forefront: upskilling and regular assessments.

With groundbreaking medical advancements, the integration of technology, and shifting patient demographics, a dynamic and continuously learning workforce is the need of the hour. Here, upskilling comes into play. Upskilling programs empower healthcare professionals to bridge the knowledge gap. These programs, tailored to address specific needs and specialisations, can equip doctors, nurses, and allied healthcare workers with the latest practices, procedures, and technological advancements.

Consider the field of telemedicine. As virtual consultations become increasingly common, healthcare professionals must be adept at utilising telehealth platforms and effectively communicating diagnoses and treatment plans remotely. Upskilling initiatives can close this gap, ensuring seamless patient care through these new channels.

The benefits of upskilling are not only limited to acquiring new knowledge. According to research by the World Economic Forum (WEF), by 2025, half of the global workforce will need upskilling or reskilling to take on new tasks that are driven by automation and emerging technology. Implementing such programs fosters a culture of continuous learning within healthcare institutions. This, in turn, enhances employee motivation, satisfaction, and ultimately, retention – a crucial factor considering the current healthcare worker shortage.

However, upskilling alone is not enough. To ensure the effectiveness of these programs and maintain high standards of care, regular assessments are essential. These assessments, conducted periodically, can evaluate a healthcare professional’s knowledge, competency, and ability to apply learned skills in real-world scenarios.

The advantages of regular assessments

Identifying knowledge gaps: Regular assessments can pinpoint areas where additional training or upskilling might be necessary. This allows institutions to tailor future programs to address identified weaknesses, ensuring a well-rounded workforce.

Promoting continuous learning: The very act of preparing for an assessment encourages healthcare professionals to stay current with the latest advancements in their fields. This fosters a culture of self-directed learning, a valuable asset in a rapidly evolving industry.

Maintaining high standards: Assessments serve as a benchmark for measuring the effectiveness of upskilling programs and the overall competency of healthcare professionals. This ensures that the quality of services delivered within institutions remains consistently high.

Patient safety: Ultimately, regular assessments contribute to patient safety by ensuring healthcare professionals possess the necessary knowledge and skills to provide effective and evidence-based care.

The road ahead

A commitment to upskilling and regular assessments by organisations is paramount for propelling the healthcare sector forward. It is high time that healthcare institutions, professional bodies, and government agencies collaborate to develop and implement robust upskilling programs and standardised assessment procedures. Prioritising continuous learning and competency evaluation empowers healthcare professionals to deliver exceptional services and ensure patient safety, positioning healthcare systems for quality and innovation globally.