Abstract
Introduction A multidisciplinary approach is essential for success in pediatric oncology treatment.
Updated protocols, quality nursing care, psychosocial support, safe and standardized
preparation of chemotherapy, infection control, and effective data management are
key shareholders for the effective management of childhood cancer. The Department
of Pediatric Oncology at Indus Hospital and Health Network (IHHN) initiated consistent
teaching and trainings with the help of the My Child Matters Grant from Sanofi Espoir
Foundation. These courses were conducted in person starting in 2019 and had to be
postponed and restructured due to coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in early 2020.
Objectives The aim of this study was to determine the impact of virtual teaching models for
healthcare workers employed in pediatric hematology/oncology departments in low-resource
settings.
Materials and Methods After in-person courses in 2019, courses for all six disciplines (physicians, nursing,
infection control, pharmacy, psychosocial care, and cancer registry) were conducted
virtually starting December 2020, open to all and free of cost. A total of 878 registrations
were obtained and 267 certifications given. Lectures with Q&A sessions were conducted
via zoom and recordings shared through email. Each course was conducted by the relevant
department at IHHN with pre- and postassessment conducted through Google Forms. Session
feedback was taken through zoom polls and a comprehensive course feedback conducted
after completion; e-certificates were awarded to successful participants according
to a predetermined criterion.
Results A total of 434 physicians' registrations were done from around Pakistan and countries
like Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Jordan, and Canada for the online physicians' course,
of which 110 received certifications after completing post-test and attendance criteria
of 55%. Pharmacy, infection control, psychosocial care, and cancer registry courses
saw participation and certification of 51, 41, 24, and 14 participants, respectively.
Online sessions received positive feedback in terms of instructors, course content,
convenience, and access from over 90% participants.
Conclusion Due to the ease in coordinating hectic schedules and cost-effectiveness of online
lectures, this virtual teaching model will persist despite the trajectory of the COVID-19
pandemic. Similar ventures aimed at pediatric oncology teaching and training are needed
in a widespread manner to improve outcomes of childhood cancer.
Keywords
education - pediatrics - capacity building - mentorship
