Learning interventions and training methods in health emergencies: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Workforce Development
• Emergency Preparedness

Background:

• Informing the health workforce and public during health emergencies is critical for response.
• Effective communication and training save lives and reduce socio-economic impact.
• Just-in-time learning interventions are vital for capacity building in health emergencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map and understand learning interventions and training methods used in health emergencies.
• To identify who is using these interventions and in what contexts.
• To inform the development of global guidance for health emergency learning.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review was conducted.
• Six major databases and expert consultations were used for study identification.
• Study characteristics were mapped, and key topic areas were identified.

Main Results:

• 319 records were included, focusing on COVID-19, general disasters, Ebola, and wars.
• Key themes included knowledge acquisition, emergency plans, intervention impact, and training methods.
• Virtual learning evolved, and interventions improved knowledge, management, quality of life, and clinical outcomes.

Conclusions:

• This is the first scoping review of its kind in this area.
• The findings are a crucial first step toward developing global guidance.
• Improving the quality and reach of learning interventions in health emergencies is urgently needed.