Evaluation of the WHO Basic Critical Care Course: Insights From the Belize Pilot

Introduction: Globally, an estimated 45 million people experience critical illness each year, with nearly 80% of cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where access to critical care-trained providers is often limited. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently developed a Basic Critical Care Course (BCC) to equip frontline healthcare workers with essential skills to recognize and manage critically ill patients, particularly in resource-variable settings. In collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), a pilot of the Basic Critical Care Course was delivered. This 5-day in-person BCC course in Belize City (March 2024) was delivered to 24 participants (19 doctors, 5 nurses), covering the ABCDE assessment of critical illness, life-threatening syndromes, and organ function maintenance while en route to definitive diagnosis and treatment. This study aims to measure the impact of the training.


Methods: We measured pre- vs. post-course changes in knowledge and confidence levels across key critical care competencies. Additionally, we conducted focus group interviews immediately after the course and 3 months later to understand course feedback and the perceived impact on clinical practice.


Results: Analysis indicates significant improvements in both knowledge and confidence across all participants, with a knowledge test score mean increase from 80% to 92%. Qualitative data suggest that interprofessional education fosters stronger collaboration between cadres, enhancing communication and team-based decision-making in critical care scenarios. Follow-up interviews revealed increased adherence to evidence-based protocols, training tools, and improved recognition and management of critically ill patients.


Conclusions: This pilot underscores the value of WHO’s BCC Course and interprofessional education in strengthening critical care capacity. Future efforts will focus on optimizing the course, expanding access, and ensuring sustainable impact.