The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has taken a significant step forward in improving India's healthcare landscape by introducing a range of new courses. The courses strongly emphasize epidemiology, epidemic intelligence, and health education and communication, which aim to equip healthcare professionals with the latest knowledge in medical devices and equipment and improve their skills.
The ICMR has designed and developed a diverse spectrum of courses that cater to the evolving needs of the healthcare sector. These programs aim to enhance the capabilities of healthcare professionals across various domains, from frontline epidemiologists to communication specialists. The flagship Online Health Communications Course provides participants a comprehensive understanding of strategic communication, health communication, media management, and community engagement.
It underscores the importance of effective communication in disseminating vital health information and fostering community participation in healthcare initiatives. The ICMR has also taken proactive steps to address the growing need for skilled epidemiology and epidemic intelligence personnel.
The establishment of the ICMR School of Public Health (ICMR-SPH) aims to train experienced epidemiologists with the skills required to address emerging health threats through advanced programs such as the Master in Public Health and Epidemic Information Services Program and intermediate training such as the Field Epidemiology Training Program for Non-Communicable Diseases (FETP-NCD).
In addition, the council has designed specialized courses focused on medical equipment and supplies. Certifications are available in paramedical areas such as anesthesia technician, transfusion technician, dialysis technician, catheter lab technician, medical lab technician, optometry and refraction technician, perfusion, and x-ray and radiography technician.
Dr. Bal, Director-ICMR, said that the launch of these courses marks a significant step forward in their efforts to improve India's healthcare infrastructure. Investing in the skills of healthcare professionals and promoting innovation in health education aims to improve the quality of healthcare delivery and address the growing health challenges facing our country.
