A three-country survey of stakeholders on Continuous Professional Development in Public Health

BACKGROUND: Health and social care systems in Eastern Partnership Countries are in the process of “digital transformation”, and health professionals started widespread use of digital registers and databases. This challenge highlights the importance of upskilling workforces. However, in some of these countries there are not well functioning Continuous Professional Development (CPD) systems available and less attention is paid to widening access to life-long learning (LLL) education at High Educational Institutions (HEIs). Study aimed to explore the view of stakeholders on the needs and perspectives of CPD in the Public Health on the example of Georgia, Armenia and Moldova. METHODS: Quantitative research method was used. A special questionnaire was designed for the study. Survey was administered in November-December 2022 in Georgia, Armenia and Moldova. RESULTS: In total, 122 stakeholders from various areas (Ministry of Health, PH institutions, hospitals, HEIs) participated in the survey with 58,7% being at a high management level and with 82.5% having more than 15 years of total working experience. The majority of respondents (94,6%) worked in the state sector. Study reveals several common needs and perspectives in all three countries. Majority of stakeholders (97,8%) suggested that there is a lack of qualified staff with the necessary competencies and skills. In addition, large share of stakeholders (95,7%) mentioned that there is a lack of training opportunities and relevant CPD Programs in e-health and digitalization, medical and social registries, electronic surveillance systems, as well lack of financial support (93,4%), absence of appropriate regulation (90,2%). CONCLUSIONS: Stakeholders in Georgia, Armenia and Moldova considered that existing gaps can be filled through strengthening the national system of CPD and developing of high quality CPD Programs oriented on specific knowledge and skills in the Public Health. KEY MESSAGES: • It is important in Eastern Partnership Countries to develop CPD programs with a focus on digital skills according to the best European practice and experience. • High Educational Institutions can play a significant role in delivering LLL for the health workforce in Public Health.