Willemstad, – December 1, 2023 – Curaçao Medical Center (CMC) recently concluded a highly successful -day “Teach the Teacher” course. The courses that took place on from November 27th through 1st were aimed at enhancing the teaching abilities of Medical Specialists with training responsibilities at the hospital. The Dutch accredited course, organized by the Netherlands-Caribbean Foundation for Clinical Higher Education (NASKHO), featured expert instructors from the University Medical Center of Groningen (UMCG). As an affiliate teaching hospital of the UMCG this program was readily provided to the CMC.
The purpose of the course is to guide Medical Specialists in their training role at CMC to adopt best practices in teaching and mentorship. One of the courses offered was also dedicated to CMC interns and medical residents.
The sessions were characterized by a mix of interactive discussions, practical exercises, and real-world examples, ranging from basic instructions to the complexities of medical diagnoses. Participants had the opportunity to work in smaller groups, engaging in hands-on exercises to practice step-by-step instruction, guidance, and constructive feedback.
The primary focus of the course was to strengthen and improve the didactic actions of medical specialists, ensuring they can organize a structured, safe and effective learning environment in their daily practice. The emphasis on teaching methods and techniques aimed to enhance the overall educational climate at CMC.
Professor Dr. Ingemar Merkies, the Medical Director of CMC, emphasized the significance of the “Teach the Teacher” course. “Teach the Teacher brings colleagues together to form a stronger connection and teaches specialists to convey correct information better, relay valuable patient information, and have empathy with all levels of the students, colleagues, or patients. It also strengthens a more educational climate at CMC,” he stated.
The acquired skills during the training extend beyond the direct interaction with medical residents and students. They also benefit other colleagues, such as nurses, who can receive valuable instruction, thereby creating a more cohesive and effective healthcare team.
The successful execution of the “Teach the Teacher” course underscores CMC’s commitment to continuous professional development and elevating the standard of medical education. The collaboration with NASKHO and UMCG reflects a dedication to bringing world-class expertise to Curaçao for the benefit of medical professionals and, ultimately, quality of patient care.
