Field Epidemiology Training Program global evaluation: application of graduates' skills

Area of Science:

• Public Health Workforce Development
• Epidemiology Training
• Global Health Security

Background:

• The Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) is a vital global initiative supported by the CDC for over 40 years.
• FETP offers tiered practical training (Frontline, Intermediate, Advanced) to enhance public health workforce capacity in epidemic detection and response.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the application and impact of FETP Intermediate and Advanced programs on graduates' current roles.
• To assess the influence of FETP training on career progression within the global public health sector.

Main Methods:

• A global cross-sectional online survey was administered to FETP Intermediate and Advanced graduates from March to May 2022.
• Purposive and snowball sampling recruited participants; data collected on demographics, competencies, and career impact.
• Statistical analysis included poststratification weighting, frequency distributions, and Rao-Schott Chi-square tests for associations.

Main Results:

• 1493 graduates from 49 countries participated; 75% from advanced programs, 82% involved in COVID-19 response, 83% in supervisory roles.
• 87% of graduates felt confident in FETP competencies, with 71% finding them highly relevant to their work.
• 82% of COVID-19 responders found FETP competencies extremely helpful; 87% and 90% reported FETP aided job and career aspirations, respectively.

Conclusions:

• FETP competencies are relevant and crucial for professional public health work, enhancing graduates' confidence and performance.
• Advanced FETP graduates and supervisors reported higher confidence in applying learned competencies.
• FETP training is perceived as instrumental for achieving career goals and beneficial to employing organizations.