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Christopher Ogolla, MPH and Joan Cioffi, PhD. PHPPO/CDC, 4770 Buford Hwy NE, MS-K-38, Atlanta, GA 30341, 770-488-2480, cogolla@cdc.gov
Evidence of the effects of workforce quantity (staffing levels and mix) and quality (professional education/credentialing) on performance of core public health functions is limited. Research suggests that the effects of workforce (capacity & competency) will be modified by the characteristics of the agencies in which individuals work. The science base to predict the nature and extent of such effects is lacking. Investments in workforce development assume that workforce competency/capacity is linked with the effectiveness and efficiency of providing essential public health services and ultimately improving health outcomes. This paper summarizes findings from a literature review of 65 reports on the training of health personnel, certification, credentialing or agency accreditation and an outcome. Each report was analyzed based on characteristics of the workforce, work setting, study design, intervention type, unit of analysis, and outcome measure. Implications for public health were also described. There is a paucity of quality research or compelling evidence linking certification/credentialing of health workers to improved health outcomes. A promising research design which explored the influence of a critical mass of advance practice nurses on patient/health outcomes may have applicability in public health. The authors argue that research is needed which explores the link between workforce competency, organizational performance and health outcomes in public health and suggest next steps.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Certification, Workforce
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Handout (.pdf format, 50.0 kb)