Ebola Virus Training: A Needs Assessment and Gap Analysis

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Occupational Health
• Infectious Disease Preparedness

Background:

• The 2014 Ebola virus disease outbreak highlighted the need for effective worker training.
• Existing training programs faced challenges in adapting to evolving federal guidance and limited resources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess existing training for workers at risk of exposure to infectious diseases.
• To identify challenges and best practices in developing and implementing training programs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of peer-reviewed articles on relevant training.
• Analysis of federal guidance issued in 2015.
• Four stakeholder meetings with representatives from healthcare, academia, industry, and public health.

Main Results:

• Few training articles provided sufficient detail to serve as models.
• Training programs struggled with frequently updated federal guidance.
• Healthcare training often lacked employee health components for non-healthcare providers.
• Funding and organizational complacency were significant challenges.

Conclusions:

• Sustainable training for infectious disease outbreaks necessitates annual funding and management support.
• Cooperative planning between management and employees is crucial.
• Integrating infection control, emergency management, and employee health is vital for effective guidance and training.