Development of an impact evaluation framework and planning tool for field epidemiology training programs

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Program Evaluation

Background:

• Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETPs) have expanded globally, but published impact evaluations are scarce.
• Existing evaluations often focus on processes and short-term outcomes, neglecting sustained impact.
• There is a need for robust methods to assess the long-term contributions of FETPs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple, flexible, and efficient framework for evaluating the impact of FETPs.
• To create a practical planning tool to guide FETP impact evaluations.
• To support FETP staff, including those without prior evaluation experience, in assessing program impact.

Main Methods:

• A theory of change process from a Papua New Guinea FETP informed the framework's development.
• An iterative approach, literature review, and input from FETP representatives were used.
• A planning tool was created to operationalize the impact framework.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive FETP Impact Evaluation Framework was developed, comprising a high-level summary and a detailed operational component.
• The framework outlines outputs, outcomes, and impacts for trainees, graduates, public health systems, and communities.
• A five-step, theory-based FETP Impact Evaluation Planning Tool was created.

Conclusions:

• Few published studies validate the long-term impact of FETPs despite their global growth.
• The developed framework and tool address the growing need for evidence on FETP's sustained contributions.
• The flexible approach allows contextual application and integration with various evaluation methods.