Evaluation of a pilot interprofessional train-the-trainer workshop to enhance sickle cell anemia community education in Kenya

Abstract

Background: To assess the implementation of a pilot interprofessional train-the-trainer workshop (TTT) on sickle cell anemia (SCA) for feasibility, capacity building, and program sustainment.

Methods: The TTT was used to enhance the capacity for community education about SCA in Kenya. An interprofessional team from the USA and Kenya developed the TTT and participants were recruited in Kenya. Participants evaluated the TTT at three and six months after training.

Results: The TTT was highly rated in terms of increasing knowledge about SCA (80%) and ability to engage in SCA advocacy (80%). All participants (100%) reported increased knowledge in content areas of signs and symptoms and evidence-based clinical management. At three and six months, the five participants had trained 60 and 25 other trainers, respectively. The critical barriers to the planned activities were the COVID-19 restrictions and a lack of resources.

Conclusion: The TTT facilitated and sustained capacity building in the community, but its impact was limited by the COVID-19 pandemic and lack of resources. Future capacity-building activities should address funding and the identified barriers with attention to the local context.