BD collaborates with HSSC for standardised training modules in phlebotomy

This initiative seeks to provide training on best practices in phlebotomy to laboratory professionals in order to improve their employability

BD (Becton, Dickinson & Co.) and Healthcare Sector Skill Council (HSSC) have signed an agreement to develop co-branded training modules for ‘Phlebotomy Technician Course’. This initiative seeks to provide training on best practices in phlebotomy to laboratory professionals in order to improve their employability.

The HSSC, with support from National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), is working with the industry in skilling healthcare professionals in the allied healthcare space. The training module developed by BD as knowledge partner would be leveraged by candidates enrolled for fresh training as well as RPL (Recognition of prior learning) training for the phlebotomy technician course under the ambit of HSSC. Additionally, BD will also train the master trainers who will cascade the training to healthcare professionals and support them in driving best practices in preanalytical processes for accurate and reliable diagnosis.

On the occasion, Varun Khanna – MD-BD India & South Asia, said, “At a time when the Skill India Movement is looking at bringing about convergence and focusing on industry linkages, this initiative comes as BD’s commitment to enhance the skills of laboratory technicians. It will address the shortage in human resources both in terms of skill and number leading to universal health coverage for all. Through the standardized curriculum in phlebotomy training with HSSC, together we will be able to enhance the clinical practices in creating sustainable improvements in Indian healthcare.”

Stressing on the need to upgrade skills, Ashish Jain – CEO, Healthcare Sector Skill Council said, “There is immense potential to enhance the skills of laboratory technicians in line with the growing healthcare needs. Keeping in mind the need for phlebotomy by the healthcare sector, HSSC with industry experts has developed the Qualification Pack-National Occupational Standards (QP-NOS) for Phlebotomy technicians that will facilitate plugging the existing skill gap in this area. Today’s agreement is a significant step in this direction.”

According to a study titled ‘From Paramedics to Allied Health Sciences: landscaping the journey and way forward’ undertaken by the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI), India faces an acute shortage of over 64 lakh skilled human resource in the health sector. The shortfall has resulted in the uneven distribution of all cadres of health workers, medical and nursing colleges and has led to an imbalance both in the capacity and in quality of education and training, leading to poor health outcomes. There is ample international evidence suggesting that empowered allied health professionals (or paramedics, as they are known internationally) can be the leaders of change, playing critical roles in improving the reach of health services in underserved areas.