Fundamentals of risk management

Early-release course

You are accessing an early-release version of this course, produced by the WHO Academy. We encourage you to provide feedback on your learning experience. We will use your feedback to adapt and improve the course and the WHO Academy online platform.

About this course

This course defines what WHO means by the terms risk and risk management. It emphasizes that risk management is the responsibility of all health actors in maximizing delivery of results. In this context, managing risks is a crucial success factor. Managing risks is often seen as exclusively managing threats and not opportunities, this course helps in understanding how proactive risk management can improve achievement of health outcomes.

Who is this course for?

Everyone involved in jointly achieving WHO’s triple billion goals around the globe and the Sustainable Development Goals.

What will you learn?

You will learn the basic concepts and principles of how to manage the risks you face every day. Thinking ahead and taking positive action to identify and respond to these risks will increase your effectiveness and efficiency at work.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Identify the key concepts and terms used in risk management.
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• Differentiate between risks and problems.
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• Review appropriate risk response actions in specific scenarios.
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• Reflect on how to begin to apply the basics of risk management to your professional practice.

Assessment and Award

Receive a WHO Academy Award of Completion when you complete all the activities. The award is saved in your ‘My Achievements’ space and can be downloaded and shared.

Delivery mode and activities

One self-directed module with case studies, expert testimonies, knowledge checks and a scenario challenge to begin applying your learning.