Tata Trusts set up free online training module on Covid-19 Critical Care

Mumbai, May 26, 2020: Tata Trusts has tied up with CMC Vellore and CIHS Hyderabad to curate free online training modules for medical professionals on Covid-19 Critical Care.

The module developed in association with Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore and Care Institute of Health Sciences (CIHS) Hyderabad will help health care professionals in augmenting skills in critical care in the management of Covid-19.

The 22-hour long on-line training module is meant for specific staff chosen by identified hospitals and are provided free of cost, the Tata Trust officials said.

There are two different methodologies of training available either through live webinars or prepared modules accessible on laptops, desktops or mobile phones. While CMC Vellore’s method trains and develops master trainers, who in turn can coach wider groups in their respective facilities, the CIHS Hyderabad’s method directly trains small groups.

Both the institutions have designed their programmes such that participants can provide the required support to their ICU colleagues should the need arise. 

The Tata Trust initiative is in synch with the thoughts of Chairman Mr. Ratan N. Tata who has advocated for deployment of "urgent emergency resources to cope with the needs of fighting the Covid-19 crisis, which is one of the toughest challenges the human race will face."

The training module includes essentials of interventions and procedures in ICUs, orientation of critical care skills like airway management and ventilator management, and how to triage a criticality as mild, moderate or severe and refer cases to appropriate facilities. The programme will also cover essentials of managing variegated facilities for Covid-19 management, such as isolation centres, quarantine centres, and management of service areas and patients with mild illness, a statement from the Tata Trust read.

Tata Trust has taken multiple initiatives as part of its COVID response programme. 

Earlier, as many as four government hospital buildings, two in Uttar Pradesh and two in Maharashtra, have been upgraded into Covid-19 treatment centres. The facilities, including both in-patient and out-patient wings, are permanent and will enduringly enhance health care in their locations, even after the immediate purpose is met.

Tata Trusts have also donated Personal Protection Equipment including coveralls, N95/KN95 masks, surgical masks, gloves and goggles to State Governments and individual hospitals. Thus far, PPE supplies have gone out to about 26 states and Union Territories.