Capacity Building

Capacity strengthening holds significant importance for R4HSSS, standing as a top priority within its strategic agenda. The dedicated team has diligently conducted numerous training sessions aimed at enhancing capabilities across Northeast (NE) and Northwest (NW) Syria. These efforts are geared towards empowering individuals and organizations with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to effectively address the diverse challenges within the healthcare and social services sectors in these regions. Through tailored training programs and initiatives, R4HSSS endeavours to foster sustainable development and resilience, thereby contributing to the overall well-being and prosperity of communities in NE and NW Syria.

IHD

The Idlib Health Directorate’s (IHD) main objective is to arrange healthcare endeavours, manage assistance, formulate health plans and strategies, and supervise the execution of these initiatives across the Governorate. The IHD exercises oversight over all healthcare institutions within the province and has carried out multiple training sessions to strengthen capacity.

SBOMS Trainings

The Syrian Board of Medical Specialties (SBOMS) is a scientific professional academic board that grants a unified certificate called Specialization Certificate of Syrian Board of Medical Specialties for all trainee doctors in various specialties after completing the training period curriculum which is accredited in the medical facilities approved by SBOMS and passing the required examinations.

R4HSSS Scholarships

As part of R4HSSS’ focus on capacity strengthening for the local health workforce, we have offered future health leaders in Syria a unique opportunity to study for an online master’s at a UK university. These scholarships were awarded to outstanding professionals from Syria to pursue a master’s degree in any subject related to the health system at any UK university.

SBOMS Trainings

Mechanical Ventilation Course

The Syrian Board of Medical Specialties (SBOMS) completed a Mechanical Ventilation course, attended by ten resident doctors specializing in Internal Medicine over two days and the initial day featured theoretical sessions covering the principles of oxygen therapy, respiratory physiology, machine ventilation patterns, Non-invasive ventilation, and ventilation settings across various medical conditions, including methods for weaning patients off the ventilator. On the subsequent day, practical training was provided on ventilator components, circuit…

installation, and management of ventilation settings. Additionally, the trainees, under the guidance of a supervising physician, conducted rounds in the intensive care unit to observe patients. It’s worth noting that the Division of Training and Continuing Medical Education conducted a needs assessment study to identify crucial training requirements for resident doctors. Based on the findings, plans have been devised to conduct courses encompassing all specialities for resident doctors as part of the activities under the R4HSSS project.

Pediatric & Neonatal Mechanical Ventilation Course

The Syrian Board of Medical Specialties (SBOMS) successfully completed the Pediatric & Neonatal Mechanical Ventilation Course, which was attended by 14 resident doctors specialising in pediatrics and pediatric surgery. The primary aim of this training was to acquaint participants with the significance of Neonatal Mechanical Ventilation, a crucial aspect of intensive care. Children and newborns represent a distinct demographic in the realm of mechanical ventilation, warranting specialised attention.

The training encompassed theoretical instruction on the fundamentals of mechanical ventilation in children, followed by hands-on sessions demonstrating the use of ventilators across various clinical scenarios and discussions on appropriate management strategies for different conditions. Notably, the Division of Training and Continuing Medical Education conducted a needs assessment study to identify the most essential training requirements for resident doctors. Based on the findings, plans have been formulated to deliver a series of courses catering to the training needs of residents across all specialities.

Neonatal Resuscitation Programme

SBOMS’ Neonatal Resuscitation Programme (NRP) course was attended by 10 pediatric resident doctors from four training hospitals in northwest Syria. The course covered fundamental concepts and skills essential for neonatal resuscitation, including the use of medications during resuscitation and post-resuscitation care. Trainees received hands-on practical training in initiating neonatal resuscitation, ventilation techniques, chest compressions, and endotracheal intubation. They also underwent a practical…

examination featuring various clinical scenarios related to resuscitation cases. Additionally, the Division of Training and Continuing Medical Education conducted a needs assessment study to identify the most crucial training requirements for resident doctors. Based on the results, plans have been devised to implement a series of courses covering all specialities, as part of the R4HSSS project, led by UOSSM and Idlib Health Directorate, and supported by King’s College London.

Essentials of Obstetrics and Management of High-risk Pregnancies Course

The Syrian Board of Medical Specialties (SBOMS) completed the Essentials of Obstetrics and Management of High-risk Pregnancies course, which was attended by 19 resident doctors specialising in Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Emergency Medicine from 7 training hospitals in northern Syria over two days. Throughout the course, participants were immersed in a comprehensive curriculum designed to address the multifaceted challenges inherent

in the field of obstetrics, particularly in managing pregnancies with heightened risks. Delving deep into the intricacies of clinical scenarios, the course provided invaluable insights into the diagnosis, treatment, and ethical considerations surrounding complex obstetric cases. By equipping participants with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary to navigate the complexities of obstetric care, the SBOMS has not only enhanced the capabilities of individual healthcare professionals but also contributed to the overall improvement of maternal and neonatal healthcare services in northern Syria.

Erbil & Gaziantep Trainings

The Academic Writing Training was a comprehensive program held in Gaziantep and conducted online in September 2023. It was organised by the KCL team, with additional funding obtained by Dr. Nassim El Achi through the NIHR Global Health Research Cohort Academic Development Award. These sessions were designed to delve into essential components of research paper composition, fostering an environment conducive to collaborative efforts and facilitating the enhancement of research writing skills and dissemination techniques. Participants were guided through various stages of academic writing, including structuring papers effectively, refining writing styles, and mastering the art of communicating research findings succinctly and persuasively. The training aimed to empower researchers with the tools and knowledge necessary to produce high-quality scholarly work and effectively contribute to their respective fields. Through interactive discussions, hands-on exercises, and expert guidance, attendees gained valuable insights and practical strategies to elevate their academic writing endeavors to new heights.