Innovations in clinical skills training: Development and implementation of a clinical skills training tool (CSTT) for accessible, high-quality training programs

Martina Lukin, Rachael Lowe, Shala Cunningham
Purpose:

The purpose of this presentation is to describe the development of the tool and highlight its implementation in Burma, Pakistan, Uganda, and Ukraine.

Methods:

Development of the CSTT was based on experiences implementing clinical skills training programs in four LMICs and the steps and considerations that were required across the different contexts. The tool is designed to be used by a range of stakeholders, including but not limited to, service providers; individual trainers; professional associations; academic institutions; or organizations developing, delivering, reviewing, or assessing training activities. It is divided into four phases: Planning, Implement, Assess, and Adjust. The CSTT describes the key steps that need to be considered in the development of a clinical skills training program, supported by worksheets, templates, and practical examples. There is additional guidance around developing learning objectives, learning assessments, and sustainability. In the final phase, coordinators reflect on the training and make revisions for future courses. The tool was piloted in Burma, Pakistan, Uganda, and Ukraine. Though each country had unique challenges in providing CPD, the CSTT was designed to be adaptable to context. The tool was revised based on lessons learned from each CPD experience. 

Results:

The CSTT brings together all the key steps needed to successfully plan, implement, assess, and adjust a clinical skills training program. It is accessible in both online and offline formats, each incorporating implementation guides to support stakeholders in applying the tool to their local context and training needs. Valuable tips and examples of implementation are also included in the tool, which support users to apply the information as well as adapt the steps according to their individual needs.

Conclusion(s):

The CSTT was designed to offer an adaptable solution to the identified challenges around CPD. The successful implementation of the tool in four countries supports its utility.     

Implications:

Stakeholders for the promotion and development of CPD for rehabilitation professionals will gain an understanding of the contextual and conceptual framework that guided the development of the CSTT and assess if the tool may benefit their local efforts.

Funding acknowledgements:
This publication is made possible by USAID through the Learning, Acting, and Building for Rehabilitation in Health Systems (ReLAB-HS) activity
Keywords:
Education
Continuing Professional Development
Low and Middle-Income Countries
Primary topic:
Education: continuing professional development
Did this work require ethics approval?:
Yes
Name the institution and ethics committee that approved your work:
This study (IRB No. 21399) was reviewed by the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health (JHSPH) Institutional Review Board.
Provide the ethics approval number:
21399
Has any of this material been/due to be published or presented at another national or international conference prior to the World Physiotherapy Congress 2025?:
No

Back to the listing