India epidemic intelligence service: Advocating for a unique mentor-based epidemiology training program

Area of Science:

• Public Health Training
• Epidemiology Workforce Development

Background:

• The Government of India launched a competency-based epidemiology training program in 2012.
• The program is modeled after the United States Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS).

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness and potential expansion of India's national epidemiology training program.
• To evaluate the impact of the "learning by doing" approach on public health capacity.

Main Methods:

• A 2-year, mentor-driven, practical-oriented training program.
• Implementation by the National Centre for Disease Control in collaboration with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Main Results:

• The program has successfully imparted real-time epidemiological skills.
• Trainees report high satisfaction with the practical skills gained.

Conclusions:

• The India EIS program demonstrates significant potential for strengthening national epidemiological capacity.
• Regionalization and rapid expansion of the program could transform public health in India.