Evaluating the Effectiveness of Training Course toward Train-the-Trainer on Enhancing Healthcare Professionals' knowledge in Kurdistan Region- Iraq

Background: Train the trainer programs are widely utilized in healthcare to disseminate knowledge and build capacity among professionals. In a field where resources are limited, healthcare professionals must address increasingly complex challenges. However, management-focused training is often absent from traditional university curricula, particularly in medicine, underscoring the need for specialized training programs. Objectives: to assess healthcare professionals' knowledge and evaluate the impact of a train the trainers’ course on their knowledge. Materials and Methods: A quantitative design, descriptive study was employed, using a non-probability purposive sample of 50 healthcare professionals. The instrument's reliability was determined through stability reliability, test-retest approach. Data were collected via checklist before and after a training course. A post-test was administered on the final day of training to measure outcomes. Results: The majority of participants (aged 20–35 years) were government employees, with educational backgrounds from nursing institutes and colleges. About 64% were hospital employees, while others worked in healthcare centers. (60%) had 0–5 years of professional experience. (74%) had not previously attended a train the trainer course. Before the training course only (12%) of them had a high level of knowledge regarding train the trainer while after completing the training, (100%) of participants reported high level of knowledge. Conclusion: This study confirms the effectiveness of train-the-trainer programs in significantly improving healthcare professionals' knowledge, particularly in management skills lacking in traditional education. The dramatic pre-to-post-test knowledge gains demonstrate these programs' value for workforce development in resource-limited settings, advocating for their wider implementation to strengthen healthcare systems.