# Assessing educational needs of sickle cell anemia healthcare providers in sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean

## TL;DR

Healthcare providers in sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean face challenges in accessing training for sickle cell anemia and prefer virtual telementoring for education.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific educational barriers and proposes telementoring as a novel solution for training providers in resource-limited regions.

## Key findings

- Healthcare providers reported limited training opportunities and financial barriers to education.
- Participants emphasized the need for virtual, interactive telementoring to accommodate busy schedules.
- Telementoring is seen as a viable method for capacity building and improving patient care in resource-limited settings.

## Abstract

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) causes childhood morbidity and mortality in resource-limited settings. Identifying educational needs of healthcare providers allows implementation of targeted programs using evidence-based methods.

Qualitative data using semi-structured online interviews and surveys were collected from sites across eight countries. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded for thematic analysis.

Eighteen healthcare providers (50% female) from six countries in Africa and the Caribbean were recruited. Four overarching themes emerged: (1) few training opportunities; (2) personal payment for training; (3) busy clinic schedules, so training must occur on personal time; and (4) travel constraints for attending conferences. All participants requested virtual telementoring for continuing education and emphasized an interactive format.

This needs assessment highlights the opportunity to implement telementoring educational programs, such as Project ECHO©, to increase knowledge among multidisciplinary healthcare providers treating children with SCA in resource-limited settings. Providers demonstrated a high level of interest and engagement in education delivered through established North–South partnerships. Telementoring offers an opportunity for capacity building, supporting evidence-based treatment and improving access to knowledgeable providers, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.