In an era defined by global uncertainties, from pandemics to natural disasters and conflicts, the ability of a health system to withstand, adapt, and recover is paramount. A resilient health system is not merely reactive; it is proactive, capable of anticipating threats, absorbing shocks, and continuing to deliver essential services when they are needed most. This advanced health system resilience training course is designed to empower professionals with the critical knowledge and skills required to build robust and adaptable healthcare infrastructures that can endure the most severe crises.

This intensive five-day program offers a deep dive into the strategic and operational aspects of crisis management in healthcare settings. Participants will explore a comprehensive framework for strengthening health systems, covering everything from foundational preparedness and risk assessment to the complexities of crisis response, ethical decision-making, and post-crisis recovery. By mastering these principles, attendees will be able to lead their organizations in developing resilient systems that protect public health, ensure continuity of care, and safeguard the well-being of communities.

Duration: 5 days

Target Audience:

• Public Health Officials and Directors
• Hospital and Clinic Administrators
• Emergency and Disaster Management Professionals
• Government Policy Makers
• NGO and Humanitarian Aid Workers
• Supply Chain and Logistics Managers in Healthcare
• Infection Control Specialists
• Community Health Program Managers
• Healthcare Providers in Leadership Roles
• Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Specialists

Objectives:

• Understand the core components and pillars of a resilient health system.
• Develop comprehensive preparedness and contingency plans for various crises.
• Learn to conduct rapid needs assessments and risk analyses during emergencies.
• Master strategies for effective resource allocation and surge capacity management.
• Identify key communication protocols for internal and external stakeholders.
• Grasp the principles of ethical decision-making during resource scarcity.
• Develop a framework for mental health and staff well-being support in crisis settings.
• Learn best practices for post-crisis recovery and system adaptation.
• Build skills for inter-agency and multi-sectoral collaboration during crises.

Course Modules:

Module 1: Conceptual Foundations of Health System Resilience

• Defining resilience in a healthcare context
• The four pillars of resilience: preparedness, response, recovery, and adaptation
• Analyzing past health crises to identify key lessons learned
• The role of governance and leadership in building a resilient system
• International frameworks and standards for health security

Module 2: Preparedness and Contingency Planning

• Conducting a comprehensive health system risk assessment
• Developing and implementing effective emergency preparedness plans
• The importance of early warning and surveillance systems
• Designing and executing simulation exercises and drills
• Creating and maintaining a public health emergency operations center

Module 3: Crisis Response and Operations Management

• Establishing a command and control structure during an emergency
• Strategies for rapidly increasing healthcare service delivery (surge capacity)
• Triage protocols and patient management in mass casualty events
• Managing critical infrastructure and facility safety during a crisis
• Ensuring continuity of essential health services

Module 4: Supply Chain and Logistics in Emergencies

• Building a resilient and flexible healthcare supply chain
• Managing inventory and procurement of essential medical supplies
• Overcoming logistical challenges for last-mile delivery in crisis zones
• The role of strategic national stockpiles and international aid
• Utilizing technology for supply chain tracking and management

Module 5: Communication and Information Management

• Developing a crisis communication plan for various audiences
• Strategies for effective public risk communication
• Countering misinformation and disinformation during a public health crisis
• Establishing protocols for internal staff communication and briefings
• Using data and information systems for real-time decision-making

Module 6: Ethical and Psycho-Social Support in Crisis

• Navigating ethical dilemmas related to resource allocation and rationing
• Protecting the mental health and well-being of frontline healthcare workers
• Providing psychosocial support to affected communities
• The ethics of research and data collection during a pandemic
• Ensuring equity and social justice in crisis response

Module 7: Recovery, Adaptation, and System Strengthening

• Conducting a post-crisis evaluation and debriefing
• Documenting lessons learned and translating them into policy
• Implementing adaptive strategies to build a stronger, more flexible system
• Securing funding and resources for long-term health system recovery
• Advocating for policy reforms to enhance future resilience

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.