Mapping digital public health training: are we preparing the European workforce?

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Digital Health
• Health Workforce Development

Background:

• Digital transformation and AI are revolutionizing public health.
• The preparedness of the public health workforce for these changes is not well understood.
• This review maps digital public health training initiatives in Europe.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize digital public health training initiatives for public health professionals in Europe.
• To identify trends in training formats, providers, and content.

Main Methods:

• Systematic mapping review of training initiatives from January 2020 to December 2025.
• Searched five European countries and international organizations via websites, archives, and social media.
• Classified initiatives by format, provider, and thematic content using ASPHER Core Curriculum framework domains.

Main Results:

• 367 training initiatives identified, with significant growth post-2022.
• Conferences and webinars dominated (76.8%), while structured courses and degrees were less common (21.6%).
• Scientific associations were primary providers (69.5%); digital tools and leadership were key themes, but health misinformation training was scarce (2.5%).

Conclusions:

• Digital public health training in Europe is expanding rapidly but is fragmented and relies heavily on short-term formats.
• Formal educational pathways are underdeveloped and lack integration into academic curricula.
• Addressing content gaps and strengthening formal education are vital for sustainable digital competency in public health.