Perceived Need for Training Based on Specific Core Competencies Among Indiana Epidemiologists

Objective: This study identified the competencies with the highest perceived importance to the practicing epidemiologists' jobs and the highest interest in additional training. The results will be used to plan education and training programs for epidemiologists. Methods: The CDC/CSTE Applied Epidemiology Competencies were used to develop a needs assessment of practicing epidemiologists related to skill domain and specific competencies within three tier levels. All practicing epidemiologists in Indiana who could be identified were electronically surveyed in May and June 2011 to ascertain their tier level based on their education, work experience and job duties as well as the professional competencies that were important to their jobs and for which they were interested in additional training. A total of 46 completed the survey; 18 entry level; 13 mid-level; and 11 senior epidemiologists. Results: The overall competencies identified by all respondents with the highest combined percentage of importance to the job and for which training was desired, was surveillance design and identification (88.5%), organize surveillance (86.5%), recognition of health problems (86.1%), communication of findings (84.6%) and design of investigation (83.3%). The most common overall skill domain identified was assessment and analysis. The top competencies and domains were identified as well for each tier. Conclusion: The Indiana Public Health Training Center will use the survey results to better plan programs to the needs of Indiana epidemiologists' training needs. Future assessments using this approach will help evaluate the impact of the training programs and identify emerging trends of needed additional training.