Competencies for One Health Field Epidemiology (COHFE)-a framework to train the epidemiology workforce

Field epidemiologists play a crucial role in addressing the complex challenges posed by emerging infectious diseases, transboundary animal diseases, and antimicrobial resistance. Despite the interdisciplinary nature of these issues, traditional field epidemiology training programs are often narrowly focused on specific sectors. To effectively confront these evolving challenges, it is imperative to equip field epidemiologists with the skills to adopt the One Health approach. However, there are neither globally accepted One Health competencies for guiding field epidemiology training programs nor standardized curricular guidance for program managers. Recognizing this gap, three international organizations joined forces to develop the Competencies for One Health Field Epidemiology framework.

A desktop review was conducted of the existing frontline, intermediate, and advanced field epidemiology training program curricula. Knowledge, skills, and competency (KSC) statements for frontline, intermediate and advanced levels were then defined and grouped into domains and subdomains by thematic area. An international Technical Advisory Group of 59 experts from the animal, environment, and human health sectors was convened to review the proposed statements. The framework was revised based on their feedback. KSC statements were classified into core and optional, and a prioritization tool was developed to assist countries in selecting optional KSC statements based on their specific requirements.

The competency framework was developed and comprises KSC statements needed for field epidemiologists to successfully apply the One Health approach across the human, animal, and environment health sectors. These KSC statements are stratified by frontline, intermediate, and advanced training levels and are further categorized as core and optional; sector-specific KSC statements are also identified.

This innovative framework emerged from a multisectoral, collaborative, inclusive, and iterative process involving international animal, human, and environment health and field epidemiology training experts. Countries and regions can also use the framework to establish new, comprehensive One Health field epidemiology training programs or upgrade existing programs to incorporate the One Health approach. This framework is anticipated to pave the way for a more holistic approach to training the global community of field epidemiologists in all health sectors to meet the demands of our evolving health landscape.