Purpose of HealthTecDL

Supported by a grant from Healthcare Georgia Foundation, HealthTecDL is a network of organizations with the intent of providing Distance Learning (DL) tools to disseminate information and capacity building programs primarily to non-profit health organizations within the State of Georgia.

In addition to Healthcare Georgia Foundation, the collaborative includes Georgia’s Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Network with seven regional offices located in Albany, Augusta, Columbus, Gainesville, Rome and Statesboro; a technology provider-TechBridge; and communications and marketing support-Avatar Communications. The collaborative will design, deliver and evaluate more than 40 formal capacity building programs provided to nonprofit health organizations statewide. In addition, the AHEC Network will utilize HealthTecdl to support their mission and ongoing efforts with the health care workforce.

Through HealthTecDL, Healthcare Georgia Foundation seeks to support organizations that drive positive change, promote programs that improve health and health care, and connect people, programs, and resources. The identified multiple applications of a distance learning program include public awareness, guidance/instruction, community mobilization, peer support, organization strategic planning, advocacy, research/evaluation, and technical assistance/training.

This organizational collaborative, with a goal for outreach to all areas in the State of Georgia and specific outreach to rural areas of the State, will provide information on the effectiveness and usefulness of a distance learning network as a means to enhance the capacity of nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving access to affordable quality healthcare for underserved individuals and communities.

Beginning in the Spring, 2008, HealthTecdl will offer a wide range of capacity building programs designed to strengthen nonprofit health organizations (e.g., board governance, fund raising, using technology, marketing and communications, etc), and enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of health service delivery (health literacy, engagement of volunteers, Georgia legislative updates, etc). Health professionals across multiple disciplines will also be invited to participate in continuing education programs.