Constructing a general competency model for Chinese public health physicians: a qualitative and quantitative study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Medical Education
• Competency Modeling

Background:

• Public health physician competencies are crucial for effective public health event management.
• China's public health education system requires reform to meet evolving needs.
• Standardized competency models are needed to guide training and evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To construct a general competency model for Chinese public health physicians.
• To provide a foundation for reforming public health education in China.
• To enhance the testing and grading systems for public health courses.

Main Methods:

• Behavioral event interviews and checklist surveys were employed.
• A random stratified sampling survey included 3245 public health professionals across 14 Chinese provinces.
• Expert consultations were conducted three times to finalize the competency model.

Main Results:

• The study identified significant differences in perceived core competencies between public health professionals and educators.
• A competency model comprising seven dimensions was finalized after multiple revisions and expert consultations.
• Participant age ranged from 18 to 65 years.

Conclusions:

• The developed competency model includes seven dimensions: basic medical knowledge, public health knowledge, health management and promotion, specialized skills, research and development, comprehensive abilities, and professionalism.
• This model serves as a crucial framework for standardizing public health physician competencies in China.
• The findings support the enhancement of public health education and assessment in China.