Grampians Health rolls out Digital Health Skills program to upskill workforce
19 November 2024
Grampians Health is rolling out a new pilot program to further enhance digital skills of our clinical, administrative, and digital health information technology staff, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare technology.
The Digital Health Skills project, which will be delivered in partnership with RMIT and Cisco, is part of the Victorian government’s $4.4 million Skills Solutions Partnerships program that aims to address critical skills shortages with new training courses to help industries upskill and grow their workforce. Grampians Health’s pilot program will seek to advance the digital competency of healthcare staff.
“Our commitment to digital innovation is at the heart of this initiative. By equipping our staff with advanced digital skills, we are not only enhancing patient care but also ensuring that our workforce is prepared for the future of healthcare,” said Kate Nolan, Chief Information Officer at Grampians Health.
“This pilot program is a testament to our dedication to continuous improvement and excellence in healthcare delivery.”
Some of the key benefits of the project include equipping staff with skills to leverage digital tools such as generative AI and cybersecurity to improve decision-making, efficiency, strengthen adherence to data security and increase workforce adaptability to new technologies.
The program runs from July 2024 to June 2025, with training to staff delivered in three phased intakes in November 2024, February 2025, and April 2025. It will be delivered through a mix of self-paced online modules, live tutorials, and face-to-face workshops, offering flexibility for various roles, including frontline staff.
The phased approach also allows for iterative feedback, ensuring the program remains relevant and effective.
“Through the Digital Skills survey and workshops, we listened to our staff and identified the key areas for training through the pilot. This has assisted in informing the design,” said Ms Nolan.
The program is tailored to meet the needs of the regional public healthcare workforce and aligns with the Victorian Government Digital Health Roadmap and the National Nursing and Midwifery Digital Health Capability Framework.
“In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare environment, increasing our digital competency is essential. Healthcare staff need to be proficient with digital tools to provide the highest quality of care, protect patient data, and adapt to new technologies. Grampians Health’s Digital Health Skills pilot program ensures our team is ready to meet these challenges head-on, ultimately benefiting our staff, patients and the broader community,” said Ms Nolan.