[Validation of an evaluation guide for healthcare training programs in the field of humanitarian efforts]

The training of healthcare professionals working in the field of humanitarian action is of fundamental importance but there have been few procedures for assessing the training programs. A specific guide was produced for the evaluation of healthcare training programs. It uses a three-pronged approach to improve the training of healthcare personnel, encouraging educators to take a fresh look at the way in which they work. The guide seeks to improve the efficiency of training by evaluating programs. The guide was tested on four training programs conducted by three non-governmental organizations in three countries: Handicap International in Cambodia and Mozambique, Médecins Sans Frontières in Cambodia and Action Nord Sud in Brazil. Questionnaires, guides and appraisals were analyzed, and the results suggested that the guide was valid, reproducible and easy to use. However, it is vital to provide external educational assistance during evaluation, to promote the implementation of decisions, thereby improving training practices.