New digital programme aims to boost immunisation for migrants

In an effort to enhance immunisation service delivery for migrants and refugees in New Zealand, UniServices and Whāraurau have launched an innovative digital learning programme using the D2L Brightspace platform. The programme aims to provide targeted professional development opportunities for immunisation providers, addressing critical training gaps exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

UniServices, wholly owned by the University of Auckland, is a not-for-profit entity that supports researchers by helping them secure funding and networking opportunities. It collaborates with academic institutions, industry, and government to drive new knowledge and research initiatives. The Immunisation Advisory Centre (IMAC) and Whāraurau, both part of UniServices, play crucial roles in healthcare and professional development in New Zealand. IMAC provides information and training on immunisation and vaccine-preventable diseases, while Whāraurau focuses on workforce development in the mental health and addiction sectors.

The urgency for this programme has been highlighted by the recent pandemic, which underscored the critical importance of widespread vaccination. Migrants and refugees in New Zealand are often under-immunised due to numerous barriers, including language difficulties, cultural differences, legal obstacles, and generally low awareness among healthcare providers about the specific needs of these populations. Consequently, there is a significant gap between the immunisation services offered and the cultural contexts of migrants' and refugees' countries of origin.

Addressing this issue, the research team has developed an online educational programme specifically designed for healthcare professionals such as general practitioners and nurses. Dr Preeti Tiwari, an e-learning designer at Whāraurau and researcher at UniServices, explained that the focus on online learning is intended to accommodate the demanding schedules of doctors and nurses. "The research project looks to provide e-learning opportunities for doctors and nurses," Tiwari remarked. "It's also a different way to try and get them to learn in a time and manner that works for them."

The programme includes multiple modules that leverage evidence-based web design principles and adult learning theories. It is designed to align with the continuing professional development standards of general practice and nursing colleges in Australia and New Zealand. Expert input and feedback from selected healthcare providers have been incorporated to strengthen the programme's content and delivery.

Hosted in New Zealand by IMAC through the D2L Brightspace platform, the course provides flexibility and easy-to-navigate content through asynchronous learning opportunities. Learners can start at any point in the course based on their existing knowledge and learning journey. This approach is intended to maximise access and engagement, potentially reaching more healthcare providers than traditional face-to-face training.

In addition to enhancing access, the use of the Brightspace platform allows researchers to track learners' progress and capture data effectively. This functionality will enable continuous assessment and improvement of the programme. Dr Tiwari highlighted the advantages of using this platform: "As an e-learning designer, I was able to structure content in a way that is easy to understand and provides flexibility...We are approaching this whole learning cycle through online learning to help them improve their capacity and their ability to provide culturally appropriate immunisation services to populations."

The course aims to fill a recognised gap in immunisation services, improving providers' understanding and capabilities and ultimately enhancing immunisation coverage among migrants and refugees. The programme's pilot phase is planned for the first quarter of 2024, with full implementation expected by the second quarter. Future research will focus on assessing the programme's impact on immunisation practices for migrants and refugees.

This initiative represents a significant step forward in improving healthcare outcomes for under-immunised populations in New Zealand. It leverages advanced e-learning tools to address complex and culturally sensitive healthcare challenges.