As part of our Health Systems Strengthening Programme in Malawi, data management was identified as a major training need for both clinical and non-clinical staff in the facilities we work with, to ensure all staff are able to make data-driven decisions to improve the quality of healthcare provided to the most vulnerable communities we serve. In response, we organised a two-part Data Management training series in Mangochi and Blantyre, for nurses, clinicians, lab officers and data clerks working at the clinics we support. In total, 11 nurses, 6 doctors, and 18 data clerks were trained, with an average 71.5% improvement of knowledge and understanding post training.
Data Management Training: Objectives
- To equip Nurses, Clinicians and Data clerks with knowledge on data collection and reporting tools
- To equip Nurses, Clinicians and Data clerks with knowledge and skills on data analysis, interpretation and use
- To equip Nurses, Clinicians and Data clerks with knowledge on operation of Data Management tools
Data Management Training: Impact
In Mangochi, 30 trainees attended, representing 8 different facilities. Of the 25 individuals who completed both the pre and post training exams, there was a total increase of 70% in the pass rate:
- 28% of the 25 trainees passed the pre-training exam
- 96% of the 25 trainees passed the post-training exam
- 68% improvement in data management knowledge post training
- 8 Nurses were trained
- 5 Doctors were trained
- 12 Data Clerks were trained
“When I go back to my facility, I will make sure to teach my colleagues who were unable to come to this training, so that we can work hand in hand to gather good quality data.” - Data Management Trainee
In Blantyre, a total of 25 individuals attended from 6 different facilities, with 16 completing the pre and post-assessments:
- 6% of the 16 trainees passed the pre-training exam
- 81% of the 16 trainees passed the post-training exam
- 75% improvement in data management knowledge post training
- 3 Nurses were trained
- 1 Doctor was trained
- 6 Data Clerks were trained
“The training was good and timely - it helped us to know how to be accurate with our data collection.” - Data Management Trainee
By the end of the training, all attendees left with an increased set of skills and knowledge related to data management, including:
- Using the correct tools required for data collection
- Defining Data Management indicators
- Writing reports
- Understanding the importance of good quality data
- Presenting and disseminating data
Read more about our work in Malawi / Support Doctors Worldwide.
Make sure to share this article with your friends and family, follow us on social media (twitter, facebook, instagram, linkedin, tiktok) and subscribe to our mailing list below for regular updates and campaigns.
