Why Educational Programs and Continuing Education Are so Important for Health Care Providers

It’s well known that health care providers require special knowledge and skills in order to provide competent and safe care as well as to protect those who access the health care system. But do you ever wonder how a health care provider or assisted living facility manager comes to recognize health concerns and deliver the necessary treatments and medications in a responsible and ethical manner?

The answer is education.

Health care education is the key to improving patient outcomes, ensuring quality of life and protecting individuals from harm.

In order to practice their chosen professions, many health care providers (physicians, nurses, pharmacists, physical and occupational therapists, dentists, certified nursing assistants and medication technicians) require licensure by the state or federal government.

There are numerous other health care providers, however, like those hired to assist family members and vulnerable individuals with activities of daily living ranging from bathing to eating to walking around, that do not require licensure. Because these providers may not be required to have skilled education, it is imperative that they have training opportunities available to them to help them recognize problems, promote safety and know how, and to whom, to report care-related issues.

Given that there are more than 14,000 health care facilities in Maryland, it is crucial to have easily accessible training programs available to all providers.

Here are some training topics that are recommended for all health care workers, especially those who work in senior care facilities:

• Accident Prevention

• Basic First Aid

• Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation

• Understanding the Aging Process

• Infection Control and Universal Precautions

• Basic Food Safety

• Basic Nutrition

• Cueing and Coaching

• Fire and Life Safety

The more skilled providers and health care practitioners should avail themselves to other educational activities that will assist them in the management and oversight of less experienced health care workers.

Topics for higher-level providers should include:

• Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

• Depression

• >Diabetes

• Dysphagia

• Emergency Disaster Plans

• HIIPAA

• Identity Theft

• MRSA

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

• Psychosocial Needs of the Elderly

• Resident Assessment Process

• Resident Rights

• Seizure Disorders

• Service Plans for Senior Care Workers

• Setting Supervisory Limits

• Slips, Trips and Falls

• Stress Management

• Wound Care

The ultimate goal of a training program is not just to increase the skills of health care workers, but also to help health care providers recognize and report problems that could impact the health, safety and well-being of all individuals who require health care.

As a huge proponent of training and education, I encourage all health care providers and care givers to continue their education, regardless of what is required by their state, licensing board and employer. Should you ever find yourself in need of training, I’ve written and contributed content to a number of training programs that will help you do your job to the best of your ability.

Remember, whatever you profession, continuing education is the key to bettering yourself and those you serve.