Digital Health Education: Determining Competences and Piloting Innovative Study Course

Area of Science:

• Biomedical and Health Informatics
• Digital Health

Background:

• Digital technology is vital for healthcare delivery, aiming for universal healthcare and improved patient outcomes.
• A competent health information and communication technology (ICT) workforce is essential to leverage Digital Health tools effectively.
• Existing continuing education models partially address the need for Digital Health expertise, but dedicated courses are paramount.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical role of Digital Health in enhancing healthcare services and patient outcomes.
• To emphasize the necessity of a skilled health ICT workforce proficient in Digital Health tools.
• To advocate for dedicated educational initiatives in Digital Health to meet growing demands.

Main Methods:

• The Deggendorf Institute of Technology, European Campus Rottal-Inn (DIT-ECRI) is piloting a virtual course in Global Digital Health.
• The course is designed to impart core competencies in Digital Health.
• Efforts are focused on streamlining Digital Health education across diverse boundaries to integrate it into university curricula.

Main Results:

• The virtual Global Digital Health course pilot aims to equip the current health ICT workforce with necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies (KSCs).
• This initiative represents a significant step towards advancing Global Digital Health Education.
• The course is designed to provide foundational competencies in Digital Health.

Conclusions:

• Establishing dedicated and standalone Digital Health courses is paramount for workforce development.
• Streamlining Digital Health education across disciplines, cultures, and nations is key to its integration into higher education.
• The pilot virtual course in Global Digital Health by DIT-ECRI is a proactive measure to advance Digital Health education and build a competent workforce.