The epidemiology workforce: are we planning for the future?

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology as a core discipline in public health practice, education, and research.
• Public health workforce development and capacity building.
• Health research and its reliance on specialized epidemiological expertise.

Background:

• A perceived significant shortage of epidemiological capacity within Australia's health sector.
• Concerns regarding insufficient numbers of highly trained epidemiology graduates to meet future needs.
• The Australasian Epidemiological Association's (AEA) formation of a working group in 2007 to address these issues.

Discussion:

• Examination of key training challenges hindering the development of epidemiological expertise.
• Identification of opportunities to enhance epidemiological education and training programs.
• The role of professional bodies like the AEA in advocating for and shaping public health capacity.

Key Insights:

• The critical need for advanced epidemiological training to support public health leadership and research.
• The direct link between workforce capacity and the ability to address public health challenges effectively.
• The importance of addressing training gaps to ensure a robust future for epidemiology in Australia and New Zealand.

Outlook:

• The necessity for increased public and professional dialogue on epidemiological training needs.
• Strategies to foster greater collaboration between academia, industry, and government in public health.
• Long-term vision for strengthening Australia's epidemiological workforce and research capabilities.