Management of Bacteriology Data Using WHONET Software

RATIONALE/ BACKGROUND

The laboratory information system (LIS) is one of the vital aspect of the laboratory. LIS is a computer system used to manage data collected and generated by a clinical laboratory, frequently integrated into a hospital/health care information system. In the information age, it is very critical to have a smooth flow of information within a healthcare system to improve laboratory operations and patient care. However, a commercial data management system for a laboratory is costly and will take time and effort to develop an in-house system.

WHONET is a free desktop Windows program for managing and analyzing microbiology laboratory data, with a specific emphasis on antimicrobial resistance surveillance. In addition, WHONET offers modules for public health reporting, data encryption, data entry, data analysis, and lab setting. In order to reduce the necessity for double-entry of data, WHONET also utilize data import software called BacLink for the acquisition and standardization of data from existing desktop applications, laboratory devices, and laboratory information systems.

 

OVERVIEW OF THE TRAINING

WHONET Online Training offers a 5-hour hands-on workshop facilitated by the Data Management Unit of Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Reference Laboratory of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine. WHONET training has the basic and advanced levels. Participants are expected to initially acquire fundamental knowledge on the basic training. This primary level is intended for new users and can serve as a refresher course.

Learners are encouraged to continue with advanced analyses involving the use of saTScan software for cluster analysis and extraction of local microbiology data from automated analyzers using BacLink. Advanced WHONET will describe the broader utilization of the software to enhance the users’ skills in data conversion and advanced configuration. All training activities are conducted using online platforms. Prepared lecture videos and hands-on exercises on the three main components of software were provided.

 

PARTICIPANT’S PROFILE

Medical Technologists / Staff working on diagnostic laboratory.

Allied health professionals under Data management unit of a diagnostic laboratory

 

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Participants are expected to have basic computer knowledge. Must have a laptop or desktop unit with available internet connection.

 

COURSE LENGTH

The course offering will be available to participants for 10 days (via RITMlearn) with a designated day for the synchronous hands-on session to be conducted via online platform.

 

COURSE FEE

PHP 3,000.00

For interested participants, kindly fill-out the google form below and email us through trainings@arsp.com.ph

https://forms.gle/t1d7CKRvp4gNjeQf7

Benchwork Training on Detection of Resistance Mechanism of Select Aerobic Bacteria and Data Management using WHONET PROGRAM

Rationale/Background

The purpose of this training course is to develop practical skills in the  following areas in the field of aerobic bacteriology:

  1. Selection of appropriate culture media used for the processing and inoculation of clinical specimens for aerobic bacterial culture; and use of laboratory instruments for the presumptive and definitive identification of bacterial pathogens;
  2. Develop skills on the appropriate methods and interpretation of results for antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST)following CLSI guidelines to include detection of resistance mechanisms among aerobic bacteria
  3. Develop Quality Assurance system focusing on Internal QC

Management of results and data using WHONET software.

Participant’s profile

1. Registered medical technologist working in a bacteriology laboratory.

2. Medical practitioner

Admission Requirements

  1. Letter of request for training addressed to the Head of Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Reference Laboratory (ARSRL).
  2. Letter of request for training shall contain information on the educational and work background of the participant, specific training needs, and duration.
  3. Training needs assessment form.
  4. Training course on basic aerobic microbiology.

Course Length 

2 weeks

Course fee

Php. 17,500.00

*Prices may change without prior notice

Important notes*:

  1. Priority for training slots is given to applicants from DOH-retained hospitals with existing tertiary laboratories.
  2. Application for training from institutions participating in the current ARSP accreditation cycle shall be disapproved until the end of the current cycle.
  3. Only one trainee per institution per year shall be accommodated. Applicants from institutions who had been trained by the ARSRL/Microbiology in the past year shall be recommended for application for next year.
  4. This advanced course is intended for participants with experience and/or training in aerobic bacteriology.
  5. Applications received will be waitlisted until a slots are available for the training. The ARSRL training calendar is full for the whole year hence, training schedules can be expected to be provided 6-12 months after application. Status of application can be viewed via the RITM Learning and Development Information System (http://apps.ritm.gov.ph:8080/).

 

*Not applicable to ARSP sentinel sites