Abstract:
Introduction: The Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka provided voluntary
healthcare services during the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami. At that time the faculty recognised
the need to prepare the healthcare system for future disasters by enhancing the capability of
healthcare workers. The development and implementation of a disaster management course for
healthcare workers was identified as a priority. Method: An outcome-based approach was used
to develop the curriculum. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used to identify the core
competencies and outcomes that healthcare workers need to achieve at the end of the course. The
content, teaching learning methods and assessments were aligned with the course outcomes. The
course consists of 9 core modules and an elective research module. Formative and summative
assessment methods were included. Conclusion: Training is an important component of disaster
management. The outcome-based approach provides a useful framework for developing such
training programmes and ensures that needs are addressed.
