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Abstract Background Infectious diseases persistently pose global threats, and it is imperative to accelerate the professionalization of public health workforce. This study aimed to develop and validate the infectious disease control competency scale (IDCCS) for public health professionals to fill a theoretical gap and elevate practical capabilities by informing public health professionals’ development goals. Methods The initial item pool was generated through a literature review, and categorized into three dimensions (knowledge, practical skills, and leadership) based on the competency iceberg model and public health leadership framework. A two-round Delphi process was conducted to determine indicators within the scale. A pilot survey was utilized for item analysis and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). A formal survey was employed for confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The weight value of each indicator was calculated using the analytic hierarchy process. Results An initial scale with three primary items, 14 secondary items, and 81 tertiary items was generated. Twenty experts participated in the two rounds of the Delphi process. Authority coefficients exceeded 0.9 in both rounds. Kendall's W was 0.29 and 0.19, respectively (both P

The aim: to develop a modern certification program "Global Health" for the continuous professional development of public health professionals. Materials and methods. The study employed bibliosemantic, informational-analytical, medical-statistical, sociological methods, and content analysis method. The research program included an analysis of the main competencies of public health professionals, as defined by the Association of Schools of Public Health in the European Region (ASPHER) and the higher education standard for specialty 229 "Public Health" for the second (master's) level of higher education; analysis of existing certification programs on global health; conducting sociological surveys of public health professionals regarding priority topics and preferred learning methods. The research was based on normative documents, electronic resources, and the results of sociological research. Statistical processing and mathematical analysis of materials were conducted using statistical analysis methods. Results. It was established that global health issues are significant in shaping the professional competencies of public health professionals, considering the requirements of the higher education standard for specialty 229 "Public Health" for the second (master's) level of higher education and those, defined by the European List of Core Competencies for Public Health Professionals ASPHER. The study of these issues was identified as important for continuous professional development based on sociological surveys of disease control and prevention center employees (38.4 out of 100 respondents). Among various forms of education, webinars (62.2±3.8 out of 100 respondents) and online learning (60.4±3.8) are most in demand. Analysis of the obtained data led to the justification of the "Global Health" certification program. In the developed "Global Health" certification program, 26.7% of the workload corresponds to lectures, 33.3% to practical classes, and 40% to preparatory work. Structurally, it covers 2 modules and 8 topics on current issues of the impact of globalization on health and analysis of global health indicators. Conclusions. The "Global Health" certification program meets the requirements of normative documents, considers contemporary challenges and consequences of globalization on health, highlights global health trends, and its topics are in demand among disease control and prevention center professionals.

Burn-out or exhaustion syndrome is caused by a prolonged exposure to a chronic professional stress. Public Health Professionals are the most exposed to this kind of risk. The ultimate goal here is to determine the prevalence of the burn-out and search for factors associated with this pathology among those who work in the field of health. Our sample, which is from the Ibn Sina Hospital in Rabat, consists of 150 nurses, 80 doctors, and 40 administrators. A self-questionnaire was employed, the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) as well as a clinical interview. The results of this study show a high degree of burnout. Moreover, 56.66% of participants show a high level of emotio - nal exhaustion, 45.18% suffer from a high level of depression. Meanwhile, the loss of a sense of personal accom plish ment is high among 48.51% of those surveyed. The emotional exhaustion observed among people who have worked for a long time ago is associated with the means of transportation used and to the unsuitable hours of work. Depersonalization exists among elderly people and the oldest at work. This study confirms the existence of a high level of burnout among health professionals. Many socio-demographic and socio-professional factors contribute to the increase in the level that people are affected. These factors encourage the promotion of better working life conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Spatial epidemiology plays an important role in public health. Yet, it is unclear whether the current university education in spatial epidemiology in China could meet the competency-oriented professional demands. This study aimed to understand the current situation of education and training, practical application, and potential demands in spatial epidemiology among public health postgraduates in China, and to assess the critical gaps in a future emerging infectious diseases (EID) pandemic preparedness and response. Methods This study was divided into three parts. The first part was a comparative study on spatial epidemiology education in international public health postgraduate training. The second part was a cross-sectional survey conducted among public health professionals. The third part was a nationwide cross-sectional survey conducted among public health postgraduates at Chinese universities from October 2020 to February 2021. Data was collected by the WeChat-based questionnaire star survey system and analyzed using the SPSS software. Results International education institutions had required public health postgraduates to master the essential knowledge and capacity of spatial epidemiology. A total of 198 public health professionals were surveyed, and they had a median of 4.00 (IQR 3.13–4.53) in demand degree of spatial epidemiology. A total of 1354 public health postgraduates were surveyed from 51 universities. Only 29.41% (15/51) of universities offered spatial epidemiology course. Around 8.05% (109/1354) of postgraduates had learned spatial epidemiology, and had a median of 1.05 (IQR 1.00–1.29) in learning degree and a median of 1.91 (IQR 1.05–2.78) in practical application degree of spatial epidemiology. To enhance professional capacity, 65.95% (893/1354) of postgraduates hoped that universities would deliver a credit-course of spatial epidemiology. Conclusions A huge unmet education and training demand in spatial epidemiology existed in the current education system of public health postgraduates in China. To enhance the competency-oriented professional capacity in preparedness and response to a future pandemic, it is urgent to incorporate the teaching and training of spatial epidemiology into the compulsory curriculum system of public health postgraduates in China.

Background: Spatial epidemiology plays an important role in public health. Yet, it is unclear whether the current university education in spatial epidemiology in China could meet the competency-oriented professional demands. This study aimed to understand the current situation of education and training, practical application, and potential demands in spatial epidemiology among public health postgraduates in China, and to assess the critical gaps in a future emerging infectious diseases (EID) pandemic preparedness and response. Methods: This study was divided into three parts. The first part was a comparative study on spatial epidemiology education in international public health postgraduate training. The second part was a cross-sectional survey conducted among public health professionals. The third part was a nationwide cross-sectional survey conducted among public health postgraduates at Chinese universities from October 2020 to February 2021. Data was collected by the WeChat-based questionnaire star survey system and analyzed using the SPSS software. Results: International education institutions had required public health postgraduates to master the essential knowledge and capacity of spatial epidemiology. A total of 198 public health professionals were surveyed, and they had a median of 4.00 (IQR 3.13–4.53) in demand degree of spatial epidemiology. A total of 1354 public health postgraduates were surveyed from 51 universities. Only 29.41% (15/51) of universities offered spatial epidemiology course. Around 8.05% (109/1354) of postgraduates had learned spatial epidemiology, and had a median of 1.05 (IQR 1.00–1.29) in learning degree and a median of 1.91 (IQR 1.05–2.78) in practical application degree of spatial epidemiology. To enhance professional capacity, 65.95% (893/1354) of postgraduates hoped that universities would deliver a credit-course of spatial epidemiology. Conclusions: A huge unmet education and training demand in spatial epidemiology existed in the current education system of public health postgraduates in China. To enhance the competency-oriented professional capacity in preparedness and response to a future pandemic, it is urgent to incorporate the teaching and training of spatial epidemiology into the compulsory curriculum system of public health postgraduates in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Currently, many public health issues are directly related to malnutrition, and are made worse by social inequities. Nutrition professionals must be a key player in improving epidemiological aspects of nutrition-related diseases and must be part of clinical teams to control nutritional concerns. Objective To identify and analyze the nutritionists´ employment situation in Ecuador and areas of work covered and determine if type of university has an impact over work situation. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted, approved by the ethics committee of Universidad San Francisco de Quito. It included 442 nutritionists in Ecuador who graduated in 13 universities (5 private (PR) and 8 public (PU)) between 2008 and 2019. It implied an online survey that questioned their satisfaction with their education and current work situation. All the statistical analyses were performed using R version 4.0.3, two-sided weighted chi-square test was performed to estimate the difference between public and private university graduates, IC 95%, p between 0.01 and 0.05. Results 38,6% of participants are unemployed, 68,28% private university graduates (PR) are currently employed and 58.87% work as nutritionists, compared to 56,86% from a public university (PU) currently working and 44.69% working in the field. 76% have reported being unemployed at some point in their careers, being difficulty finding jobs the main reason. Regarding the professional field, most professionals have their own business, and the less common area of work was public and community nutrition. One third of the participants had another paid activity. The main salary is 800USD per month and graduated from PR perceived better salaries than from PU. Conclusion There is a lack of job opportunities for Ecuadorian nutritionists despite the high demand in every level of the health system. Most have been unemployed at some point in their careers due to difficulties finding jobs. There is a minimum nutrition staff working in community and public health nutrition.

Abstract Background Transcultural capacity is a key component of consolidated global public health assistance cooperation (GPHAC). The aim of this study is to investigate the transcultural capacity perceptions of public health professionals from China’s disease control and prevention system after relative training in order to provide a reference for enhancing transcultural capacity during the practice of GPHAC. Methods A cross sectional qualitative survey in which self-administrated questionnaire with 5 open ended questions was used. The questionnaire was disseminated on the completion of an online training for China’s senior public health professions on transcultural capacity in GPHAC. Descriptive statistics, word frequency analysis and content analysis were used to analyze the questionnaire data. Results Totally, 45 participants took part in this training, 25 of them voluntarily participated in this survey. The participants demonstrated the need for transcultural competence in public health services and suggested improvement in the course content arising from their wealth of knowledge and practical experience in the field. 96% of the participants considered that the training course was “very necessary” and “meaningful”. The most interested topics were “Overview of transcultural adaptation and GPHAC”, “Transcultural adaptation and response” and “African culture and health”. The contents about “Country-specific analysis on cultural factors in public health”, “rapid transcultural adaptation” and “more specific practical experiences in diverse cultural backgrounds” were suggested to be added in future training. The participants considered that transcultural capacity ensured the smooth progress of GPHAC and they both could complement each other, transcultural adaptation was the premise of gaining trust and reaching cooperation, it can be conducive to the health assistance professionals to integrate into local cultural life, facilitating their foreign assistance work to be effective and efficient, and impart experiences well. The participants hoped to put the concept into action. Conclusion The importance of transcultural competence in GPHAC is becoming a consensus of public health professionals. Enhanced transcultural competence reflected in the attitude of public health as well as other health workers would promote GPHAC and would foster efficient emergency health response management among many countries.

Background: Currently, many public health issues are directly related to malnutrition, and are made worse by social inequities. Nutrition professionals must be a key player in improving epidemiological aspects of nutrition-related diseases and must be part of clinical teams to control nutritional concerns. Objective: To identify and analyze the nutritionists´ employment situation in Ecuador and areas of work covered and determine if type of university has an impact over work situation. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted, approved by the ethics committee of Universidad San Francisco de Quito. It included 442 nutritionists in Ecuador who graduated in 13 universities (5 private (PR) and 8 public (PU)) between 2008 and 2019. It implied an online survey that questioned their satisfaction with their education and current work situation. All the statistical analyses were performed using R version 4.0.3, two-sided weighted chi-square test was performed to estimate the difference between public and private university graduates, IC 95%, p between 0.01 and 0.05. Results: 38,6% of participants are unemployed, 68,28% private university graduates (PR) are currently employed and 58.87% work as nutritionists, compared to 56,86% from a public university (PU) currently working and 44.69% working in the field. 76% have reported being unemployed at some point in their careers, being difficulty finding jobs the main reason. Regarding the professional field, most professionals have their own business, and the less common area of work was public and community nutrition. One third of the participants had another paid activity. The main salary is 800USD per month and graduated from PR perceived better salaries than from PU. Conclusion: There is a lack of job opportunities for Ecuadorian nutritionists despite the high demand in every level of the health system. Most have been unemployed at some point in their careers due to difficulties finding jobs. There is a minimum nutrition staff working in community and public health nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Transcultural capacity is a key component of consolidated global public health assistance cooperation (GPHAC). The aim of this study is to investigate the transcultural capacity perceptions of public health professionals from China's disease control and prevention system after relative training in order to provide a reference for enhancing transcultural capacity during the practice of GPHAC. Methods: A cross sectional qualitative survey in which self-administrated questionnaire with 5 open ended questions was used. The questionnaire was disseminated on the completion of an online training for China's senior public health professions on transcultural capacity in GPHAC. Descriptive statistics, word frequency analysis and content analysis were used to analyze the questionnaire data. Results: Totally, 45 participants took part in this training, 25 of them voluntarily participated in this survey. The participants demonstrated the need for transcultural competence in public health services and suggested improvement in the course content arising from their wealth of knowledge and practical experience in the field. 96% of the participants considered that the training course was "very necessary" and "meaningful". The most interested topics were "Overview of transcultural adaptation and GPHAC", "Transcultural adaptation and response" and "African culture and health". The contents about "Country-specific analysis on cultural factors in public health", "rapid transcultural adaptation" and "more specific practical experiences in diverse cultural backgrounds" were suggested to be added in future training. The participants considered that transcultural capacity ensured the smooth progress of GPHAC and they both could complement each other, transcultural adaptation was the premise of gaining trust and reaching cooperation, it can be conducive to the health assistance professionals to integrate into local cultural life, facilitating their foreign assistance work to be effective and efficient, and impart experiences well. The participants hoped to put the concept into action. Conclusion: The importance of transcultural competence in GPHAC is becoming a consensus of public health professionals. Enhanced transcultural competence reflected in the attitude of public health as well as other health workers would promote GPHAC and would foster efficient emergency health response management among many countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organizational reputation is critical for successful stakeholder engagement. A crisis can affect the organizational reputation and alter stakeholder perception about organizations. The current study investigates the impact of the Covid‐19 pandemic and its management on the World Health Organization's (WHO's) reputation among Indian public health professionals (PHPs). The study applies the situational crisis communication theory (SCCT) model to investigate the reputational impact of the pandemic on WHO among the study subjects. The study results indicate that most Indian PHPs attribute the current Pandemic to WHO. Their current reputation has dropped compared to their earlier reputation among Indian PHPs. The same is reflected in their behavioral intent, with the PHP's willingness to follow WHO guidelines on public health issues significantly reduced. The study also finds empirical support for the SCCT Model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaccinations of healthcare workers (HCWs) aim to directly protect them from occupational diseases, and indirectly protect their patients and communities. However, studies increasingly highlight that HCWs can be vaccine hesitant. This review aims to analyze HCWs' and public health professionals' sentiments toward COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) vaccination and determinants across different countries. A search strategy was conducted in PubMed using keywords such as "COVID-19", "sentiment/acceptance", "healthcare workers", "vaccine hesitancy", and "influenza". A total of 56 articles were selected for in-depth analyses. The highest COVID-19 vaccination uptake was found in an Italian study (98.9%), and the lowest in Cyprus (30%). Older age, male gender, the medical profession, higher education level, presence of comorbidities, and previous influenza vaccination were associated with vaccine acceptance. Factors for low acceptance were perceived side effects of the vaccine, perceived lack of effectiveness and efficacy, and lack of information and knowledge. Factors for acceptance were knowledge, confidence in the vaccine, government, and health authorities, and increased perception of fear and susceptibility. All studies focused on healthcare providers; no studies focusing on public health professionals' sentiments could be found, indicating a gap in research that needs to be addressed. Interventions must be implemented with vaccination campaigns to improve COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the COVID-19 pandemic, internal European borders were temporarily re-established to mitigate the outbreak. Much research on pandemic border control measures has focused on quantifying their effectiveness for infectious disease control as well as on their social consequences for cross-border life in the European Union. However, little attention has been paid to the impacts for the practice and organisation of cross-border public health. To address this gap, the present study analysed the experiences and perspectives of public health professionals working in European border regions regarding border control measures in the pandemic. Qualitative interview-based study. In total, 27 semistructured interviews with public health professionals were conducted in the border regions between Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium. Participants were asked about their perspectives on border control and the spread of COVID-19 in the region. Interviews were performed between December 2020 and April 2021 and carried out in German, English, Dutch and French. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, borders had become largely invisible with extensive cross-border social life and mobility. Participants were sceptical about the role of cross-border mobility as a pandemic driver and consequently the effectiveness of enforcing border control for reducing the spread of COVID-19 in their border regions. At the same time, participants raised concerns about the negative consequences for the social fabric and provision of cross-border public health. Public health professionals highlighted the uncertain role of border control measures for regional infectious disease control in border regions. Rather than border control, sustainable cross-border communication and collaboration is crucial to ensure effective pandemic management in border regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides practitioner and academic insights into the importance of examining non-technical skills in a multiteam system emergency response. The case of public health professionals is highlighted, illustrated with unique qualitative field data which focused upon the use of non-technical skills at a meso level of analysis. Results reflected the importance of context upon the multiteam system and highlighted seven non-technical skills used by public health professionals to support an effective response. Recommendations for future research and implications for practice are noted for this hard to access professional group, located within emerging advances in the scientific inquiry of complex and increasingly evident, multi-team systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides practitioner and academic insights into the importance of examining non-technical skills in a multiteam system emergency response. The case of public health professionals is highlighted, illustrated with unique qualitative field data which focused upon the use of non-technical skills at a meso level of analysis. Results reflected the importance of context upon the multiteam system and highlighted seven non-technical skills used by public health professionals to support an effective response. Recommendations for future research and implications for practice are noted for this hard to access professional group, located within emerging advances in the scientific inquiry of complex and increasingly evident, multi-team systems.

The COVID-19 pandemic placed significant burden on public health professionals, with many experiencing burnout and leaving the profession. The New York State Public Health Association (NYSPHA) recognized the impact of the pandemic on the state’s public health workforce and sought professional development opportunities to support current and future generations of public health professionals. To achieve this goal, NYSPHA solicited input from its members and potential members via survey and focus groups as part of its New Directions Initiative. Seventy individuals participated in listening sessions, and 850 responded to the survey. While more than half felt that NYSPHA is invested in the health and wellness of New Yorkers, fewer considered NYSPHA a leader in public health or a go-to source for public health information. Only about one-third felt connected to NYSPHA as a public health professional. Participants identified multiple professional development opportunities that would encourage them to join or renew their membership including sections or special interest groups (57.4%), opportunities to gain leadership experience (56.7%), volunteering (58.1%), a new committee that addresses public health in the community (55.9%), and mentorship (48.4%). NYSPHA used the results of the survey and focus groups to provide several professional development opportunities including a mentorship program, a new Public Health in Action Committee, and special interest groups in mental health and climate change that have already made a difference in local New York State communities. Similar organizations may use NYSPHA’s experience as an example for supporting their workforce to maximize impact on the communities they serve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background During the perinatal period women lack screening and treatments for perinatal depressive symptoms, while public health professionals (PHPs) in primary care centres (PCCs) need training for identification and management of such symptoms. This quasi-experimental study was aimed at evaluating knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy among PHPs after participating in a Knowledge, Attitude, and Self-efficacy (KAS) program for identification and management of perinatal depressive symptoms. Method The KAS-program, carried through in Sakonnakhon in north-eastern Thailand, comprised one day of theory and a four-week period of field practice. Thirty-three PHPs from PCCs participated in the program. Twenty-three of them participated in focus group discussions (FGDs). Chi-square for trend, paired-sample T-tests and content analysis were used. Results Knowledge, attitude and self-efficacy scores increased after the PHPs had fully participated in the KAS-program. Four categories emerged from the FGDs: increased understanding and knowledge, being aware and having a positive attitude, having confidence and ability to work, and need of regular training and feedback. Conclusion The KAS-program may contribute to giving PHPs in PCCs the knowledge, positive attitude and self-efficacy they need to identify and manage perinatal depressive symptoms. Implementation of the KAS-program to other healthcare professionals such as nurses/midwives is great of interest.

Public health plays a crucial role in restoring, protecting and promoting health of affected populations in times of war and armed conflict. Even though health effects of war are well explored, the development of competencies to address the public health impact had received little attention in public health curricula. We suggest building upon the WHO-ASPHER Competency Framework originally designed to strengthen Public Health Services in the European Region. It provides an already established framework for Schools of Public Health and additional public health organizations and, at the same time, can be extended to understand and prevent the political, economic, social, and cultural determinants of war. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Electronic health record (EHR) has the potential to make available the real-time data of the patient to the healthcare professionals by connecting all levels of the public health system, irrespective of their geographical boundaries. Aim: This study aims to test the capturing and sharing of real-time patient data at primary, secondary, and the tertiary level. Settings and Design: The cloud-based EHR system developed earlier was used to capture real-time data of the patient visiting a primay health center (PHC) in Udupi District of Karnataka. Subjects and Methods: About 100 patient records including laboratory and pharmacy data have been captured into the EHR system. The confidentiality of patient data is assured. Results: The result of the study indicated no errors while capturing and sharing the patient data in real time. The system also evidenced the availability of vital statistics about the patient visiting PHCs. The system also allowed the professionals at referral level to view patient data for providing quality healthcare. Conclusion: EHR plays a vital role in capturing, storing, and sharing patient data for providing quality healthcare and it should be made mandatory by the central health agencies in the provision of patient care and reporting of notifiable communicable diseases at all levels.

Objective: This study aimed to assess public health professionals' use of data, information, and evidence and to understand perceptions and preferences regarding data visualization to inform future design of data visualization tools. Design: We conducted qualitative interviews with public health professionals who use data for decision making as part of community health assessment and program planning from state and local health departments across six states. Results: We identified four themes: 1) collection of data, information, and evidence; 2) management and analysis of data and information to inform decisions; 3) use of data to support public health practice; and 4) preferences for data visualization and how visualization is being used. Public health professionals use data, information, and evidence from various resources for communicating with co‐workers, stakeholders, and the public, and decision making regarding their programs and services. Conclusion: Data visualization tools can help public health professionals improve their understanding and communication, their education of stakeholders, and their decision making using data, information, and evidence. Public health professionals believe in the value of using data, information, and evidence. Opportunities exist in ways to support public health professionals' data use by adopting data visualization tools and by mitigating systematic challenges in public health information systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background China's capacity to control and prevent emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases is critical to the nation's population health. This study aimed to explore the capacity of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCs) in China to deal with infectious diseases now and in the future. Methods A survey was conducted in 2015 among 973 public health professionals at CDCs in Beijing and four provinces, to assess their capacity to deal with emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. Results Although most professionals were confident with the current capacity of CDCs to cope with outbreaks, nearly all indicated more funding was required to meet future challenges. Responses indicated that Yunnan Province faced more challenges than Anhui, Henan and Liaoning Provinces in being completely prepared and able to deal with outbreaks. Participants aged 20–39 years were more likely than those aged 40 and over to believe strategies such as interdisciplinary and international collaborations for disease surveillance and control, would assist capacity building. Conclusion The capacity of China's CDCs to deal with infectious diseases was excellent. However, findings suggest it is imperative to increase the number of skilled CDC staff, financial support, and strengthen county level staff training and health education programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The war in the Ukraine, resulting from a brutal attack by Russia, has inspired the author to recollect a visit to Kiev in 1976 and negotiations with colleagues at the Ukrainian Institute of General and Environmental Hygiene about experiences with monitoring the health impacts of environmental pollution. A warm reception, hospitality, interest in professional issues and the atmosphere of well-being during the stay in Kiev sharply contrasts with the ongoing terrible war. Unforeseeable damage in public health conditions will have to be added to the humanitarian and material consequences of the war. The author deeply regrets that the Ukraine is faced with such tragedy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During the perinatal period women lack screening and treatments for perinatal depressive symptoms, while public health professionals (PHPs) in primary care centres (PCCs) need training for identification and management of such symptoms. This quasi-experimental study was aimed at evaluating knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy among PHPs after participating in a Knowledge, Attitude, and Self-efficacy (KAS) program for identification and management of perinatal depressive symptoms.Method: The KAS-program, carried through in Sakonnakhon in north-eastern Thailand, comprised one day of theory and a four-week period of field practice. Thirty-three PHPs from PCCs participated in the program. Twenty-three of them participated in focus group discussions (FGDs). Chi-square for trend, paired-sample T-tests and content analysis were used.Results: Knowledge, attitude and self-efficacy scores increased after the PHPs had fully participated in the KAS-program. Four categories emerged from the FGDs: increased understanding and knowledge, being aware and having a positive attitude, having confidence and ability to work, and need of regular training and feedback.Conclusion: The KAS-program may contribute to giving PHPs in PCCs the knowledge, positive attitude and self-efficacy they need to identify and manage perinatal depressive symptoms. Implementation of the KAS-program to other healthcare professionals such as nurses/midwives is great of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Microplastics pollution represents a global public health concern. Since the greatest amount of microplastics are of anthropogenic origin, one of the most relevant strategies to reduce microplastics pollution is to raise awareness among the population and this is even more important for all those involved in public health prevention interventions. The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge and awareness on microplastics of a samples of future healthcare workers. Study Design. A cross-sectional study was performed on 151 university students in the field of Public Health, both pre- and post-graduate, attending the Sapienza University of Rome courses. Methods. A questionnaire consisting of three sections was administered to the participants. The first section assessed knowledge and awareness on microplastics, the second consisted of an informative brochure on microplastics, the third evaluated the awareness after reading the brochure, and interventions considered useful to manage microplastics pollution. Results. About 25% of participants had never heard of microplastics. The scores on knowledge about microplastics were low, and differences between the investigated courses were not statistically significant (p-Value=0.134). Internet was the main source of information on microplastics, while the scores describing concern about the investigated issue resulted always higher after reading the informative brochure respect to before reading. Conclusions. The lack of knowledge about microplastics pollution highlights that future public health workers should be better informed and, therefore, able to transfer essential information to the population. Increasing general population's knowledge and awareness would increase risk perception and make all individuals more active actors for reducing microplastics pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Electronic health record (EHR) has the potential to make available the real-time data of the patient to the healthcare professionals by connecting all levels of the public health system, irrespective of their geographical boundaries. Aim: This study aims to test the capturing and sharing of real-time patient data at primary, secondary, and the tertiary level. Settings and Design: The cloud-based EHR system developed earlier was used to capture real-time data of the patient visiting a primay health center (PHC) in Udupi District of Karnataka. Subjects and Methods: About 100 patient records including laboratory and pharmacy data have been captured into the EHR system. The confidentiality of patient data is assured. Results: The result of the study indicated no errors while capturing and sharing the patient data in real time. The system also evidenced the availability of vital statistics about the patient visiting PHCs. The system also allowed the professionals at referral level to view patient data for providing quality healthcare. Conclusion: EHR plays a vital role in capturing, storing, and sharing patient data for providing quality healthcare and it should be made mandatory by the central health agencies in the provision of patient care and reporting of notifiable communicable diseases at all levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is always crucial to assess and analyze how public health professional recognize diseases of community like Chikungunya. It is also important to know about their knowledge about Chikungunya virus its vaccination, symptoms, transmission cycle and the importance of its prevention strategies. Objective: The main objective of this study was to assess the knowledge of chikungunya in first treating physicians of Lahore. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was done at University Institute of Public Health, The University of Lahore. The study was completed in 6 months. [May 23,2019 till Nov 22,2019]. All data was collected using simple random sampling. A total of 121 participants were taken meeting selection criteria after taking informed consent. Chi-square test and independent sample t-test was applied taking p-value < 0.05 as significant. Results: The mean knowledge score (%) among all subjects was 66.84 ± 18.43 (28 - 100). There were only 20(16.53%) subjects who had good knowledge, 66(54.55%) subjects had satisfactory knowledge and 35(28.93%) subjects had poor knowledge of Chikungunya. Moreover the good, satisfactory and poor knowledge of Chikungunya was also statistically same in all age groups, gender p-value > 0.05, but physicians with higher duration ofj ob have higher frequency of poor knowledge, p-value < 0.05. Conclusion: Through the findings of this study it is concluded that the good knowledge of Chikungunya virus was found in fewer no of first treating physicians i.e. 16.53%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the decline in child vaccination coverage and the subsequent occurrence of large vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks, in 2017 Italy introduced a new law that made ten vaccines mandatory for children aged 0–16 years. The policy change initiated an ongoing debate among the general public, as well as in the political arena and the scientific community, over this major public health concern. Hence, we conducted a survey aimed at assessing Italian public health professionals’ attitudes towards and opinions on mandatory vaccination. A validated online questionnaire was administered to 1350 members of the Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health. Among the 1044 responders (response rate 77%), a large majority were in favour of the Italian mandatory vaccination law (91%) and against its repeal (74%). Nevertheless, according to our sample, maintaining a high level of vaccination coverage without the need to mandate would be preferable, and thus efforts to promote vaccine confidence and proactive vaccine uptake are still needed.

Objective: Aim: Studying the opinion of public health system workers (emlpoyees) regarding existing educational problems and needs in the context of continuous professional development., Patients and Methods: Materials and Methods: Bibliosemantic, medical-statistical, sociological methods are used in the study. The research program provided for conducting sociological surveys of public health specialists in different regions of the country regarding the establishment of priority training topics for public health specialists; preferred methods of learning; barriers to access to education, etc. The scientific base of the research the regional centers for disease control and prevention have become. Statistical processing and mathematical analysis of materials was carried out using methods of statistical analysis., Results: Results: The research has found that the priority topics of training for public health specialists are issues of epidemiology (which were indicated as very important by 67.7±3.7 and as important by 22.0±3.2 per 100 respondents); emergency and disaster management (67.7±3.7 and 31.1±3.6 per 100 respondents), quality and safety (53.0±3.9 and 38.4±3.8), practices based on on evidence (42.1±3.9 and 45.7±3.9) eHealth and digitalization (40.2±3.8 and 38.4±3.8), statistics (38.4±3.8 and 51 ,2±3.9), research methodology (32.9±3.7 and 51.2±3.9) and research ethics (12.8±2.6 and 67.7±3.7, respectively). Webinars (62.2±3.8 per 100 respondents) and online training (60.4±3.8), classroom (42.1±3.9) and hybrid (40.2±3.8) were identified as preferred forms. teaching. The obstacles to the continuous professional development of public health specialists are a lack of time and a lack of finances, a lack of information about desired training programs, their regulations, insufficient support from management, military aggression and the problems caused by it, etc., Conclusion: Conclusions: The priority topics of training for public health specialists, preferred methods of training and barriers to access to training determined in the course of the study are the basis for improving the organization of continuous professional development of employees of public health centers.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of genomics training workshops for public health professionals and professionals-in-training.Design: A pre- and post-test evaluation design with 3-month follow-up.Setting and Participants: Thirteen genomics training workshops were delivered across Texas to 377 public health professionals and professionals-in-training (66.7% were ethnic minorities).Intervention: Three-hour theory-based, face-to-face genomics training workshops focusing on family health history practice were delivered.Methods: We administered surveys prior to the workshops, immediately post-workshops, and at 3-month follow-up to examine the changes in participants' knowledge, attitudes, intention, self-efficacy, and behavior in adopting genomics into public health practice. Linear mixed modeling analyses were used to analyze the quantitative survey data. A content analysis was also conducted for qualitative survey data analysis.Results: Genomics practice significantly improved among public health professionals at 3-month follow-up (P < .01). For all participants, knowledge, attitudes, intention, and self-efficacy scores increased significantly immediately post-workshop compared to the pre-workshop scores (all Ps < .01). Knowledge and attitudes scores at the 3-month follow-up remained significantly higher than those scores at the pre-workshop (all Ps < .01). The feedback from workshop participants was positive.Conclusion: Our genomics training workshop is an effective program that can be disseminated at a national level to establish genomic competencies among public health professionals and professionals-in-training in the United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Migration is a complex and contested topic of public debate. Professionals working in public health must negotiate this politicised complexity, yet few studies examine the perspectives and practices of public health professionals in relation to migrant health. This study seeks to redress this by exploring how migrant health is conceptualised and addressed by public health professionals after a key transitional point in the reorganisation of public health in England and the public vote for the UK to leave the EU. This is a qualitative in-depth exploratory study. Ten interviews and one focus group were conducted with 14 public health professionals working at Public Health England or local authorities in an English region. Recordings were transcribed, and thematic analysis was conducted. Professionals viewed migrant health mainly through a health inequalities lens; migrants were considered vulnerable, and their health was often determined by wider social issues. This influenced public health professionals' perceived ability to affect change. Public health professionals were greatly influenced by the societal, policy and institutional, post-Brexit vote context in England, describing nervousness around addressing migrant health. At an institutional level, public health professionals described a sense that migrant health was not prioritised. It was considered 'too hard' and complex, especially with shrinking resources and highly politicised social narratives. Consequently, migrant health was often not directly addressed in current practice. The gaps identified by public health professionals were as follows: lack of knowledge of health needs and cultural difference; lack of access to appropriate training; lack of cultural diversity within the public health workforce; and concerns about meaningful community engagement. These findings raise concerns about public health professionals' ability to address the health needs of migrants living in England. The gaps highlighted require further and deeper examination across relevant organisations including the broader public health infrastructure in the UK. • Migrants are viewed as vulnerable; their health is determined by wider social issues. • Public health professionals (PHPs) are influenced by the societal, policy and institutional, post-Brexit vote context. • Migrant health was not a priority, with fewer resources and a highly politicised narrative. • This research raises concerns about PHPs' ability to improve migrant health. • Better support structures for PHPs are essential if improvements in migrant health are going to be made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objectives of this study were (1) to obtain data on the current status of public health workforce training and the use of the Training Finder Real-Time Affiliate Network (TRAIN), a public health learning management platform, in state health departments, and (2) to use the data to identify organizational features that might be affecting training and to determine barriers to and opportunities for improving training. Methods: We conducted structured interviews in 2014 with TRAIN administrators and performance improvement managers (n = 14) from 7 state health departments that were using TRAIN to determine training practices and barriers to training. We determined key organizational features of the 7 agencies, including training structure, required training, TRAIN administrators' employment status (full time or part time), barriers to the use and tracking of core competencies in TRAIN, training needs assessment methods, leadership support of training and staff development, and agency interest in applying for Public Health Accreditation Board accreditation. Results: We identified 4 common elements among TRAIN-affiliated state health departments: (1) underuse of TRAIN as a training tool, (2) inadequate ownership of training within the organization, (3) insufficient valuation of and budgeting for training, and (4) emerging collaboration and changing perceptions about training stimulated by agency preparation for accreditation. Conclusions: Public health leaders can increase buy-in to the importance of training by giving responsibility for training to a person, centralizing training, and setting expectations for the newly responsible training leader to update training policy and require the use of TRAIN to develop, implement, evaluate, monitor, and report on agency-wide training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives　In Japan, schools of public health (SPH) have engaged in professional education focusing on five core disciplines: epidemiology, biostatistics, social and behavioral science, health policy and management, and occupational and environmental health. However, empirical information is lacking regarding the current state of this education and its associated challenges in Japan. In this article, we showcase this issue, using the master of public health (MPH) course at Teikyo University Graduate School of Public Health (Teikyo SPH) as an example.Methods　We summarized the current objectives and classes required to complete the MPH course at Teikyo SPH, using the course guideline published in 2022. Current issues and possible future directions in the course were summarized based on the opinions of Teikyo SPH faculty members.Results　For epidemiology, lectures and exercises were designed to focus on how to formulating public health issues, collecting and evaluating data, and causal inference. Issues related to the design included ensuring that students had the necessary skills to apply epidemiology to emerging issues, and catching the course up with evolving techniques. For biostatistics, lectures and exercise classes focused on understanding data and statistics, as well as performing analyses. Issues included the understanding of theories, setting the course level, and a lack of appropriate education materials for emerging analytical methods. For social and behavioral science, lectures and exercise classes focused on understanding human behaviors and actions for problem solving. Issues included learning various behavioral theories in a limited timeframe, the gap between the lectures and various needs, and nurturing professionals who had the skills to perform in practical settings. For health policy and management, lectures, exercise classes, and practical training classes focused on identifying and solving problems in the community and around the world, and on integrating the disparate viewpoints of health economics and policy. Issues included few alumni who actually found work globally, a lack of students working in local or central administrations, and insufficient perspectives on rational/economic thinking and macro-economic transitions. For occupational and environmental health, lectures, exercise classes, and practical training classes focused on learning the occupational and environmental impacts of public health issues, and their countermeasures. Challenges included enriching the topics with regard to advanced technologies, environmental health, and socially vulnerable populations.Conclusion　Through these reflections on MPH education at Teikyo SPH, the following recommendations are considered essential in order to prepare improvements to the program: reorganizing the curriculum to meet the needs of the day, accepting students with various backgrounds, addressing the increasing knowledge and skills that need to be acquired by the students, and enhancing the powers of professors to implement changes.

Background: Since the District Health Director (DHD) leads the district health organization, plans must be put in place to ensure that we retain current directors and anticipate the future when the DHD retires from the position. Methods: Best practices in the areas of recruiting, retention, and succession planning are used to present resolutions to the problems. Results: By following the steps identified in the best practices, there is a reasonable chance that the district will be prepared for any change in leadership. Conclusions: Using the best practices identified by human resources professionals combined with the unique characteristics of public health districts will ensure success. Key words: management, public health professionals

Objectives: In 2014, the National Board of Public Health Examiners performed a job task analysis (JTA) to revise the Certified in Public Health (CPH) examination. The objectives of this study were to describe the development, administration, and results of the JTA survey; to present an analysis of the survey results; and to review the implications of this first-ever public health JTA. Methods: An advisory committee of public health professionals developed a list of 200 public health job tasks categorized into 10 work domains. The list of tasks was incorporated into a web-based survey, and a snowball sample of public health professionals provided 4850 usable responses. Respondents rated job tasks as essential (4), very important (3), important (2), not very important (1), and never performed (0). Results: The mean task importance ratings ranged from 2.61 to 3.01 (important to very important). The highest mean ratings were for tasks in the ethics domain (mean rating, 3.01). Respondents ranked 10 of the 200 tasks as the most important, with mean task rankings ranging from 2.98 to 3.39. We found subtle differences between male and female respondents and between master of public health and doctor of public health respondents in their rankings. Conclusion: The JTA established a set of job tasks in 10 public health work domains, and the results provided a foundation for refining the CPH examination. Additional steps are needed to further modify the content outline of the examination. An empirical assessment of public health job tasks, using methods such as principal components analysis, may provide additional insight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We assessed the portrayal of new psychoactive substances (NPS) in online Hungarian printed media between January 1, 2014 and December 31, 2014 using content analysis. Altogether five topics were identified: 1: effects/side effects from the point of view of an outsider; 2: motivation of drug use; 3: type of NPS mentioned; 4: location of consumption or seizures; 5: tone of the article. The results suggest that much of the Hungarian online printed media is written in a sensation seeking way and mainly focuses on police seizures and on the physical (especially on the deviant and aggressive behavioral) effects of NPS usage. Articles mainly associate NPS with events among the marginalized population of the 8 district in Budapest (a low socioeconomic and drug infested area with a high population proportion of marginalized Roma minorities), or law-enforcement activities outside of Budapest. The monitoring of written online media may inform public health professionals and policy makers about emerging problems related to NPS, while such professionals may inform journalists to counterbalance the sensationalist tone of news pieces about NPS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objetivo: Identificar competencias y contenidos básicos de salud pública en los programas de grado de enfermería, farmacia, magisterio, medicina, nutrición humana y dietética, óptica y optometría, relaciones laborales y recursos humanos, y trabajo social, y realizar propuestas de mejora. Métodos: Organización del taller Contenidos de salud pública en los programas de grado en la XXI Escuela de Salud Pública de Menorca. Formación de ocho grupos coordinados por 37 profesores de universidades españolas seleccionados a través de informantes clave y bola de nieve. Se utilizaron dos estudios sobre competencias profesionales en salud pública, y los programas de los participantes, para analizar las competencias profesionales de salud pública, los contenidos y las recomendaciones para mejorar los programas de salud pública. Cada grupo trabajó sobre un grado y se compartieron los resultados. Resultados: Se identificaron competencias profesionales para las tres funciones esenciales de salud pública en todas las titulaciones excepto en magisterio, óptica y optometría, y trabajo social. En enfermería, magisterio, nutrición humana y dietética, y trabajo social, se rescribieron competencias para destacar el papel de cada profesional en las funciones de salud pública. Los grupos coincidieron en los temas de introducción (conceptos fundamentales y determinantes de la salud) y en las estrategias de intervención. Conclusión: Se identifican competencias y contenidos comunes en los grados. La actualización de contenidos de salud pública contribuiría a definir y visibilizar el perfil salubrista de los distintos profesionales.Objective: To identify fundamental public health competencies and contents in nursing, pharmacy, teaching, medicine, human nutrition and dietetics, optics and optometry, labor relations and human resources, and social work in graduate programs and to formulate proposals for their improvement. Methods: The workshop on Public health contents in graduate programs in the XXI Menorca Public Health School was organized as follows: eight groups were set up, coordinated by 37 Spanish university teachers participating in the workshop and selected through key informants and snowball techniques. Two studies on public health professional competencies and the participants' own graduate programs were used to discuss public health professional competencies and contents and establish recommendations to improve public health programs. Each group worked on a particular degree course and the results were shared in plenary. Results: Professional competencies for the three essential public health functions were indentified in all the degrees, except teaching, optics and optometry, and social work. Some of the competencies included in degrees in nursing, teaching, human nutrition and dietetics, and social work were rewritten to highlight the role of each type of professional in public health functions. The groups agreed on the introductory topics (basic concepts and health determinants) and intervention strategies. Conclusion: Common competencies and contents were identified in graduate programs. Updating public health contents in graduate programs would help to define and promote the profile of public health professionals.

Brucellosis is a prominent zoonotic disease affecting humans and animals which with the lack of proper diagnosis and treatment remains dangerous in third world countries like Nepal. Currently, Brucellosis poses a public health concern, whose incidences among entire herds of animals can present substantial economic and health burdens for herders and health professionals. Additionally, factors such as close contact with animals, poor animal husbandry, and unhygienic feeding habits can exacerbate the spread of Brucella and related zoonotic agents. In Nepal, serious cases of bovine and even human brucellosis have been reported, although the topic is yet to be extensively reviewed. This paper evaluates the literatures on human and animal brucellosis in Nepal and other countries, with an emphasis on the impact of Brucella outbreaks on public health professionals. Herein, we summarize the current status of the disease, the mechanism of infection, pathogenesis, zoonotic potential, diagnostic advances, treatment regimens, and the preventive measures that can be adopted in managing human brucellosis in under-developed countries such as Nepal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practitioners in health departments, university extension programs, and nonprofit organizations working in public health face varied challenges to publishing in the peer-reviewed literature. These practitioners may lack time, support, skills, and efficacy needed for manuscript submission, which keeps them from sharing their wisdom and experience-based evidence. This exclusion can contribute to literature gaps, a failure of evidence-based practice to inform future research, reduced ability to educate partners, and delays in advancing public health practice. Our article describes the writing workshops offered to Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity (DNPAO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) funded programs in 2021. This project consisted of three 60-minute introductory writing webinars open to all recipients, followed by a Writing for Publications workshop, an 8- to 9-week virtual learning/writing intensive for selected writing team applicants. The Society for Public Health Education staff, consultants, and CDC/DNPAO staff developed, refined, and presented the curriculum. The workshop for public health practitioner writing teams was offered to two cohorts and included extensive coaching and focused on potential submission to a Health Promotion Practice supplement, "Reducing Chronic Disease through Physical Activity and Nutrition: Public Health Practice in the Field" (see Supplemental Material), which was supported by CDC/DNPAO. We describe the webinars, the workshop design, modifications, evaluation methods and results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health systems globally are experiencing a shortage of competent public health professionals. Public health education across developing countries is stretched by capacity generation and maintaining an adequate ‘standard’ and ‘quality’ of their graduate product. We analyzed the Indian public health education scenario using the institutional and instructional reforms framework advanced by the Lancet Commission report on Education of Health Professionals. The emergence of a new century necessitates a re-visit on the institutional and instructional challenges surrounding public health education. Currently, there is neither an accreditation council nor a formal structure or system of collaboration between academic stakeholders. Health systems have little say in health professional training with limited dialogue between health systems and public health education institutions. Despite a recognized shortfall of public health professionals, there are limited job opportunities for public health graduates within the health system and absence of a structured career pathway for them. Public health institutions need to evolve strategies to prevent faculty attrition. A structured development program in teaching-learning methods and pedagogy is the need of the hour.

Durante a epidemia de cólera que assolou o Grão-Pará, em 1855, pouco mais de uma dezena de anônimos profissionais de saúde popular inscreveram suas artes de curar nos anais da história. As terapias não eram muitas, mas foram disseminadas nos jornais provinciais ou pela forte tradição oral presente na Amazônia. Uma dessas terapias - o uso do sumo de limão - chegou a ser avalizada pelos médicos da província como cientificamente correta. Os homens que "não eram médicos, nem cirurgiões" usavam ervas e frutos medicinais preparados em sumos, infusões, banhos, emplastos e supositórios, rompendo as fronteiras estabelecidas pela arte oficial de curar, a medicina alopática, que tentava estabelecer-se hegemonicamente. Descrevo a trilha da cólera até o Grão-Pará e analiso o contexto social da epidemia; os conhecimentos sobre a cólera: as possibilidades de socorro oferecidas à população e as práticas curativas então adotadas.During the cholera epidemics that affected the Grão-Pará Province in 1855, not more than ten anonymous public health professionals registered in history their curing powers as they relieved cholera victims. There were not too many therapies, but they were publicized in letters printed in local newspapers. The therapeutical powers of alternative medicine was disseminated throughout the Amazon thanks to the strong oral history tradition. One of such therapies - the usage of lemon juice - was adopted by medical doctors in the Province and later on scientifically accredited. Citizens who "were not doctors, nor surgeons" used medicinal herbs and fruits to prepare juices, infusions, baths, plasters and suppositories. They went over the limits established by the official medicine, allopathy, which acted hegemonically. The article describes the path that cholera traveled to reach Grão-Pará and the ensuing scourge of Belém. Data are presented on mortality, the social context of the event, health-care knowledge, and, especially, cholera in the province. This analysis of the repercussion of curative arts in the fight against cholera also describes the aid offered to the population and specific curative practices, particularly those used by specialists in folk medicine.

Public health is comprised of services, programs, and policies aimed at promoting health, preventing injury and chronic diseases, and responding to health emergencies. Public health professionals include front line providers, consultants, and specialists from various disciplines and professions, such as medicine, nursing, and epidemiology. Public health in Canada is provided through the collaboration between three levels of government, namely municipal, provincial or territorial, and federal. While public health is a shared responsibility of all levels of government, the volume and direction of allocated resources for related activities varies between the provinces and territories. Canada's public health history predates its founding in 1867. A turning point in public health in the country occurred following the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak in 2003. The following year, the federal Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) was created. Its role is to improve and maintain population health in Canada. The Chief Public Health Officer is the deputy head of the PHAC and is the government's lead public health professional. The public health landscape in Canada continues to evolve to meet the growing needs of its population and to address existing health challenges including adverse health events related to chronic diseases and unhealthy lifestyles. Moreover, it will further adapts in response to new public health threats, such as the emergence of tropical illnesses, the northward spread of infectious agents due to climate change, and disease transmission related to international travel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]