Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETP) in the Eastern Mediterranean Region and Bangladesh: graduates' skills application, career advancement, and continuing education needs

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to assess the utilization of field epidemiology skills and the perceived confidence of graduates in applying these skills throughout their careers. It also sought to assess the impact of the Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) on professional growth across different tiers, identify continuing education needs, and identify areas of dissatisfaction.

Methods: This cross-sectional study surveyed FETP graduates from various countries in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) and Bangladesh. An online questionnaire hosted on survey monkey was used to collect data on demographics, field epidemiology experience, skills application, career development, involvement in international public health work, continuing education, and overall satisfaction with the field epidemiology career.

Results: A total of 974 FETP graduates completed the questionnaire. Most participants were aged 30-39 years, with a higher proportion of advanced graduates aged 40-49 years, and males predominating across all tiers. Graduates across all tiers reported frequent use of field epidemiology skills in their professional roles. International deployment for public health events was reported by 18.4% of intermediate, 13.8% of frontline/basic, and 12.4% of advanced FETP graduates. The impact of FETP on career trajectories and professional development was widely acknowledged. Among advanced FETP graduates, 21.6% earned a master's degree through FETP, while 20.6% pursued one independently post-graduation. Additionally, 16.6% of advanced FETP graduates completed a diploma through FETP, and 3.4% obtained a PhD afterward. Expanded job responsibilities were reported by 89.4% of intermediate, 86.0% of frontline/basic, and 84.7% of advanced FETP graduates. Many also credited FETP with enhancing job opportunities. Advanced statistics was the most frequently requested topic for further training, cited by 64.9% of advanced, 59.7% of intermediate, and 45.2% of frontline/basic FETP graduates. Satisfaction with salary and benefits was relatively low (44.3%), while satisfaction with co-worker relationships and work-life balance was higher (82 and 65.9%, respectively).

Conclusion: FETP graduates across all tiers demonstrated consistent application of field epidemiology and public health skills in their careers. They reported positive impacts on job responsibilities, educational advancement, and professional growth. Identified continuing education needs-particularly in advanced statistics, emergency management, and data visualization-point to key areas for ongoing development.

Keywords: Field Epidemiology Training Program; career path; continuing education; epidemiological skills; skills.