Abstract:

Digital health has the potential to significantly improve the health care system by empowering patients, enhancing access and equity, and delivering superior health outcomes. In order to use existing and emerging technologies that support digital healthcare, digital literacy is required as a key skill. Education and training of future healthcare professionals are critical drivers of the adoption of digital health. This case study presents how the Blended Intensive Program "Digital Health" was developed and implemented in the process of healthcare studies within a collaboration involving four medical schools from Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland. The model of such an interdisciplinary program was focused on analyzing and delivering health information in the digital environment, on familiarization and comprehension of the user-centered digital service, as well as the design and operation process of the digital health service. The program also aimed to help comprehend the structure of various types of health information data sources. Through a blended approach of theoretical knowledge and practical application, the students worked together to design, develop, and implement a Digital Health service prototype. A current case study reveals that the implementation of this interdisciplinary blended intensive program has resulted in improved collaboration and knowledge sharing among the medical schools in Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland. The case study also highlights how the program has enhanced the students' understanding of health information management in the digital era, equipping them with valuable skills for future digital health practices. The results of this case study may be useful for other medical schools and institutions seeking to improve their own programs' collaboration and knowledge sharing . In addition, the findings could inform the development of similar interdisciplinary integrated intensive programs in other countries, thereby contributing to global advancements in healthcare education.

Keywords:

Blended Intensive Program, digital health, healthcare students, interdisciplinary, Erasmus Plus Programme.