WASHINGTON, Apr 15, CMC – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) says it will launch on Wednesday the Digital Literacy Programme for Health Sector Personnel, a virtual initiative aimed at strengthening the digital skills of health workers across the Americas, including the Caribbean.

It said the new initiative will be supporting efforts to improve access to and quality of care through the use of emerging technologies.

PAHO said this initiative responds to the call made by the Ministers of Health of the Americas during PAHO’s 59th Directing Council in 2021, urging the UN agency to promote health systems that are accessible, connected, and interoperable, ensuring no one is left behind in the digital era.

It said digitalisation is transforming the way health information is managed and how care is delivered. But it acknowledged that gaps remain in the region regarding access to, use of, and understanding of digital health tools, such as electronic health records, telemedicine platforms, mobile apps for patient monitoring, and epidemiological alert systems.

“This programme aims to close those gaps by equipping health personnel with key knowledge to lead change in their workplaces,” said Marcelo D’Agostino, unit chief for information systems and digital health at PAHO.

“With renewed competencies for the digital world, the Region will move toward more resilient and equitable health systems,” he added.

PAHO said that upon completing the programme, participants will have developed the ability to apply information technologies, manage data effectively, and integrate digital solutions to improve access, quality, and coordination of health services.

The curriculum covers essential topics such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence, data governance, telehealth, vital statistics, interoperability, big data analytics, infodemic management, and digital diplomacy, among others.

Designed as a fully virtual experience, the programme combines technical classes, policy dialogues with experts, keynote lectures, and collaborative spaces. It also includes real-world case studies from the region and a self-assessment tool to tailor learning to each participant’s needs, PAHO said.