Impact of capacity building training on emergency medical services for chardham yatra: a pre-test post-test study in a hilly region of North India.

Abstract

Background: The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, India, poses significant healthcare challenges due to high altitude, limited medical infrastructure, and increased risk of emergencies, including high-altitude illnesses and cardiovascular events. To address these challenges, a capacity-building program was implemented for medical officers, aiming to enhance their emergency medicine skills.

Method: The study was conducted at the Emergency Medicine and Trauma Surgery Department, AIIMS Rishikesh. The study was conducted for 6 months. A total of 150 medical officers were nominated, with 125 participating. The training involved weekly sessions over three months, comprising didactic lectures and hands-on practical skills, particularly in basic life support. Pre and post-tests comprising 20 questions assessed participants' knowledge, and skill assessments were conducted using a 7-item questionnaire on a 5-point Likert scale.

Result: The program resulted in a significant improvement in participants' knowledge, with an average increase of 41% in post-test scores compared to pre-test scores (p < 0.001). Skill assessment showed that 70.4% of participants were rated as "Outstanding" or "Very Satisfactory." The distribution of trained officers was uneven across districts, with Pauri and Tehri having the highest representation.

Conclusion: The capacity-building program significantly enhanced the emergency medicine capabilities of medical officers, leading to better preparedness for handling medical emergencies during the Char Dham Yatra. The positive outcomes highlight the importance of continued investment in such training programs to reduce morbidity and mortality. Addressing the uneven distribution of trained officers is crucial for comprehensive emergency medical coverage along the pilgrimage route.