The burden of injuries in Zambia: A call to research and action.

Injuries are predicted to become a greater cause of mortality than communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030, signaling a public health dilemma for governments and citizens in each country. This article uses epidemiological estimates of injuries in Zambia, considers the socio-economic impact of injuries, examines current policies for prevention, and provides a rapid situation analysis to help develop an action and research agenda for injury prevention in the country. It calls for better epidemiological data, capacity building for human resources, and adoption of evidence-based targets and interventions. For Zambia to reduce its burden of injuries, funding for research and training should be integral to the future of its national health agenda.

Application of Interprofessional Education Model to University Pre-Licensure Health Students in the Management of Chronic Care Conditions in Zambia.

Background: There is evidence that multidisciplinary healthcare teams can provide better quality of care and treatment outcomes compared to that delivered by individuals from a single health discipline. The project on which this article is based applied the interprofessional education model to university pre-licensure health students in the management of chronic care conditions in Zambia. Methods: Four distinct but interrelated approaches, namely desk review; module development workshops; review and validation of modules by experts; piloting and review of the training modules were employed. Results: Several models of interprofessional education currently in existence and used successfully by higher education institutions in other settings were identified. While several models of Interprofessional Education were identified, our project adapted the "didactic program, community-based experience, and interprofessional-simulation experience" models. To apply the models, modules of seven chronic care conditions were developed and piloted. The extent to which the module activities promoted interprofessional education were rated between 74 - 87% (agree or strongly agree) by the students. Conclusion: Three models of Interprofessional Education were identified and adapted in the project, and seven modules were developed and administered to the students. The process was effective for putting forth an interprofessional training program at the undergraduate level, with the potential to improve quality of care for patients.