Evaluation of the Yemen Field Epidemiology Training Program
- Program Monitoring and Evaluation
Background
Evaluation of training programs is crucial to gain knowledge about whether they have achieved objectives and to improve outcomes. Purpose: Ascertain how far Y-FETP has achieved its objectives and how to improve outcomes.
Methods
The evaluation depended on Kirkpatrick’s model and concentrated on levels 3 and 4. Data were collected using desk review; qualitative methods (including Focus Group Discussion with Y-FETP staff, and 20 Individual In-depth interviews with key ministry, organization and program staff (response rate of 87.5%); and online survey for the 43 Y-FETP graduates (response rate 70%). Qualitative data transcribed/analyzed using explanatory quotations and survey data were analyzed using descriptive methods.
Results
Desk review showed that Y-FETP covered 18(81.8%) out of the 22 governorates. Graduates conducted >171 outbreaks investigation, 138 surveillance system’ analyses/ evaluations and 53planned studies. Qualitative findings showed that Y-FETP has helped building capacities to respond to outbreaks thus reducing morbidity/mortality; providing evidence-based data for decision-making; and increased awareness about public health issues through publishing >50 articles and 155conference’ abstracts. Eighty percent of graduates reported that Y-FETP helped them much to perform outbreaks investigations, surveillance analysis/evaluation, public health communication and basic statistical methods. Furthermore, 70 to 90% of graduates rated their skills in the above domains as good. After graduation, nearly all graduates are participating in outbreak investigation e.g., for COVID-19, cholera, and diphtheria. However, the evaluation revealed that Y-FETP is depend solely on donors thus, sustainability is uncertain. Moreover, few Y- FETP graduates are engaged in policy/strategy development, managerial/administrative issues and using laboratory and advance statistical methods to support public health.
Conclusion
Although Y-FETP has achieved its objectives, finding ways to ensure sustainability through partnership, self-sponsorship, and service provision/consultancies should be considered. Finally, Y-FETP should revisit its curriculum to strengthen residents’ capacities in policy/strategy development, managerial/administrative issues and using laboratory and advance statistical methods to support public health.
Evaluation of training programs is crucial to gain knowledge about whether they have achieved objectives and to improve outcomes. Purpose: Ascertain how far Y-FETP has achieved its objectives and how to improve outcomes.
Methods
The evaluation depended on Kirkpatrick’s model and concentrated on levels 3 and 4. Data were collected using desk review; qualitative methods (including Focus Group Discussion with Y-FETP staff, and 20 Individual In-depth interviews with key ministry, organization and program staff (response rate of 87.5%); and online survey for the 43 Y-FETP graduates (response rate 70%). Qualitative data transcribed/analyzed using explanatory quotations and survey data were analyzed using descriptive methods.
Results
Desk review showed that Y-FETP covered 18(81.8%) out of the 22 governorates. Graduates conducted >171 outbreaks investigation, 138 surveillance system’ analyses/ evaluations and 53planned studies. Qualitative findings showed that Y-FETP has helped building capacities to respond to outbreaks thus reducing morbidity/mortality; providing evidence-based data for decision-making; and increased awareness about public health issues through publishing >50 articles and 155conference’ abstracts. Eighty percent of graduates reported that Y-FETP helped them much to perform outbreaks investigations, surveillance analysis/evaluation, public health communication and basic statistical methods. Furthermore, 70 to 90% of graduates rated their skills in the above domains as good. After graduation, nearly all graduates are participating in outbreak investigation e.g., for COVID-19, cholera, and diphtheria. However, the evaluation revealed that Y-FETP is depend solely on donors thus, sustainability is uncertain. Moreover, few Y- FETP graduates are engaged in policy/strategy development, managerial/administrative issues and using laboratory and advance statistical methods to support public health.
Conclusion
Although Y-FETP has achieved its objectives, finding ways to ensure sustainability through partnership, self-sponsorship, and service provision/consultancies should be considered. Finally, Y-FETP should revisit its curriculum to strengthen residents’ capacities in policy/strategy development, managerial/administrative issues and using laboratory and advance statistical methods to support public health.