Planning a continuing education program: the model for health education planning

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health Nursing
• Continuing Education
• Health Education Program Planning

Background:

• Professional development for occupational health nurses requires continuous skill enhancement.
• Healthcare reform emphasizes cost-effective, quality care, necessitating well-prepared nurses.
• Developing high-quality continuing education (CE) programs for occupational health nurses presents a challenge for CE providers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development of a CE program for occupational health nurses.
• To illustrate the application of the Model for Health Education Planning (MHEP) in program development.
• To emphasize the importance of learner-centered program design.

Main Methods:

• The study utilized the Model for Health Education Planning (MHEP) as a framework.
• The MHEP encompasses six distinct phases: initiation, needs assessment, goal setting, planning/programming, implementation, and evaluation.
• This model ensures a systematic and appropriate approach to program planning.

Main Results:

• The MHEP facilitates a structured and comprehensive program development process.
• Application of the MHEP ensures that program planning is conducted appropriately.
• The model's phases guide the creation of relevant and effective educational interventions.

Conclusions:

• The Model for Health Education Planning (MHEP) is an effective tool for developing occupational health nursing CE programs.
• Utilizing the MHEP ensures that programs are developed in a manner that addresses learner needs.
• This systematic approach supports the professional growth of occupational health nurses and enhances healthcare quality.