VHTs are critically important to our study as they gather data and share COPD interventions with patients. Training for VHTs consisted of not only how to recognize and treat patients but also included education on the pathophysiology. First, we needed to ensure a shared common language with our VHT partners. I began to ask questions to determine a baseline for VHT health literacy with respect to COPD. Through interviews, I discovered a need to adapt our education materials to meet VHT’s at their current knowledge level which was often the same as prospective patients.
Useful links (click on the orange wording to open a new window):
Johns Hopkins Center for Global NCD Research and Training
Twitter > JHU Global NCD Twitter @JHUGlobalNCD
School sites which provide opportunities/funding for experiences similar to this:
Johns Hopkins School of Nursing
Global Established Multidisciplinary Sites
Center for Global Initiatives