New NHSU web tool assesses informatics skills

The tool, which is released today at the NHS Alliance Conference in Bournemouth, has been developed with the aid of the NHSIA, and is designed to ‘close the gaps’ in knowledge about processing and handling information that any staff might have.

Di Millen, head of informatics at the NHSIA, said of the tutorial: "This tool provides an easy-to-use assessment of learning and development needs in the important areas of IT and information management.

“Identifying gaps in existing levels of skill and encouraging the use of IT are becoming increasingly important, more so as the National Programme for IT moves into its implementation phases, and as technology begins to impact more directly on service provision and care."

Staff are asked about their current information handling skills, and an assessment is generated comparing their own level of competency with those needed for their position and for the NHS. The assessment also suggests courses and training ideas.

The assessment takes the form of a web-based questionnaire. It takes around forty minutes to complete, says the NHSU, and although it doesn’t lead to any form of qualification or certificate, it is supposed to identify areas where training is needed, and is intended to support managers in creating personal development plans for staff.

The new Health Informatics Assessment Tool can be accessed at: http://www.nhsu.nhs.uk/webportal/learning/healthinfo/index.jsp.