How can we assess the competency of health informatics professionals in South Sudan?

Competency assessment approaches for health informatics in South Sudan include: practical assessments (e.g., completing a DHIS2 data entry task or creating a dashboard); written assessments (e.g., multiple choice questions on health informatics concepts); portfolio assessment (e.g., documenting evidence of competency through work samples and reflections); and 360-degree feedback (e.g., gathering feedback from supervisors, peers, and subordinates on professional performance). SSHIA uses a combination of these approaches in its training programmes.

Competency assessment should be linked to professional development planning. When a health informatics professional is assessed, the results should be used to identify areas for improvement and develop a personalised learning plan. SSHIA mentors can support this process by helping mentees interpret assessment results and plan their development.