A Message from EngenderHealth's President

Infectious diseases are constantly in transition. New diseases develop, known diseases become widespread or re-emerge, and some diseases are eradicated. Over the past few decades, tuberculosis and cholera, diseases that were once better controlled or occurred rarely, have re-emerged. In addition, HIV and the hepatitis C virus have been newly identified and are a significant cause of illness and death in many parts of the world.

Health care personnel are on the front line protecting themselves and their clients from infectious diseases. Fortunately, they can perform safe and simple procedures to minimize risk. This on-line course focuses the latest in instructional technology on a serious health care issue: infection prevention.

For over 30 years, EngenderHealth has worked in clinics and operating rooms around the world where infection prevention practices are at the heart of quality health care. We are committed to continuous quality improvement in health services. This online course represents years of work: testing practices, applying technology, working with colleagues in all types of health care services, looking for simple, effective practices that assure quality and minimize cost.

EngenderHealth's online course presents simple and effective infection prevention techniques for a range of health care staff, from cleaning personnel to surgeons. Many of the practices described here can be integrated at minimal cost into the routine workday at clinics and hospitals around the world. They are particularly appropriate for facilities in low-resource settings.

Computer-based instruction, delivered in a variety of settings over the Internet, has enormous potential for the training of health care personnel all over the world. It can reach more people, maximize the impact of limited training resources, and reduce the travel costs associated with centralized training. EngenderHealth believes computer-based instruction holds much promise, and we are pleased to begin work in this exciting new area. We are grateful to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for its support of our endeavors.

This course represents EngenderHealth's collaboration with health care organizations from around the globe. Working with our partners, we are committed to offering quality reproductive health services to the women and men of the world.

Course Home | Help | Credits | Supporting EngenderHealth