International Training and Research in Central and Eastern Europe: The University of Iowa model

In 1995, with support from the Fogarty International Center of the National Institutes of Health, The Center for International Rural and Environmental Health (CIREH) at The University of Iowa began developing the multi-level International Training and Research Program in Occupational and Environmental Health, focusing on countries in Central and Eastern Europe that were formerly under socialist control and have particular occupational and environmental health needs after decades of neglect and mismanagement. The purpose of the program is to prepare health science professionals to return to their home countries with new skills, added confidence, and leadership capabilities in public health to lead their colleagues and institutions in meeting the needs in their respective countries and establish active national and international networks and collaborations. By December 1998, 19 trainees had completed the five-month program and returned home to conduct workshops for others in their countries. Details of the program are presented.