Thirty health workers complete IT course

A batch of 30 health care workers who completed six weeks of training in basic Information Technology, graduated on Wednesday at a ceremony held at the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre.

The batch of doctors, nurses and clinical health workers were given instruction in topics including an introduction to the computer, managing files, Microsoft Office and electronic communications, but focus was placed on PowerPoint presentations.

Minister of Health Dr Bheri Ramsaran congratulated the graduates and urged them to view this qualification as a stepping stone. He said that to date about 600 – 700 health care providers have been trained from regions One, Two, Seven, Eight and Nine.

According to a report from the Government Information Agency (GINA), the course is part of an initiative set up by the minister in 2006 to expand the use of Information Communication Technology in the health sector, and to ensure all health care workers are computer literate.

In her address at the ceremony, Director of Regional Health Services Dr Monica Odwin said the Regional Health Services Department will be exploring ways to have IT training expanded across the ten regions. The training will help to enhance communication among members of the health sector around the country.