Regional Framework Core Competencies in Public Health

PAHO launched an initiative to develop a comprehensive framework of core competencies using PAHOxs essential functions in Public Health as a transversal axis. Working groups in the USA, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Colombia, Peru and Chile are developing the proposal.

The "Regional Framework Core Competencies in Public Health project" involves an important team of more than 190 experts, researchers, professors and partners from 22 countries of the Americas who are led by PAHO in a common goal: to formulate the Public Health core competencies for the public health workforce in the Americas.

The Essential Public Health Functions (EPHF) and the Social determinants of health have been the starting points for this work and previous experiences in the field have enriched the development of this project.

The competencies developed are a grouping of the knowledge, skills and attitudes, strongly related to Public Health Values: commitment to equity, social justice and sustainable development; respect for diversity and self-determination and acknowledgement of the importance of community involvement. Their target is the health workforce and professionals from related fields, at the national, regional and local levels, including health services, academic institutions, civil organizations and the private sector, among others.

This framework will consolidate a common effort for the development of updated training programs for the health workforce and will strengthen the health systems of the Region.