Health workers from five regions are being equipped with practical skills to respond more effectively to emergencies and disasters, with the training placing particular emphasis on protecting both patients and medical personnel.
The four-day training for the Emergency Medical Team (EMT), organised by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO), entered its fourth day in Mwanza on Thursday.
It has brought together health workers from council hospitals and regional health facilities in Mwanza, Mara, Kagera, Simiyu and Kigoma.
The participants are being trained to assess emergency and disaster victims based on the severity of their conditions and determine who should receive attention first when several people require care at the same time.
The practical sessions are also focusing on how responders can prepare for and manage essential supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE), medicines, medical equipment and other materials needed during emergencies.
The training comes as emergency situations can place sudden pressure on health facilities, requiring medical teams to make quick decisions while maintaining the safety of patients and healthcare workers.
Participants are also undertaking practical exercises on water, sanitation and hygiene, as well as the organisation and management of essential supplies in emergency settings.
Another key area is infection prevention and control, where health workers are being trained on proper hand hygiene, the correct use of protective equipment and the safe handling and disposal of healthcare waste.
The organisers say the practical approach is intended to help participants translate the skills gained in the classroom into effective action during real emergencies and disasters.
The training is expected to strengthen the capacity of health teams in the five regions to deliver timely and safe medical services when emergencies occur.