Chronic Disease Epidemiology Workforce Assessment
Author Information
Author(s): Siegel Paul Z MD, MPH, Huston Sara L PhD, Powell Kenneth E MD, Baptiste Mark S PhD, Tilson Hugh H MD, DrPH, Jacobellis Jillian PhD, Brownson Ross C PhD
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
What is the capacity of the chronic disease epidemiology workforce in state health departments?
Conclusion
As of 2003, only about half of the states had the minimum recommended chronic disease epidemiology workforce.
Supporting Evidence
- 54% of states had five or more full-time chronic disease epidemiologists.
- 87% of states had at least one doctoral-level chronic disease epidemiologist.
- 52% of states had both five or more full-time CDEs and at least one doctoral-level CDE.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many people work on chronic diseases in state health departments, and found that many states don't have enough workers to help people stay healthy.
Methodology
A national assessment was conducted where states reported the number of chronic disease epidemiologists and their qualifications.
Potential Biases
No financial conflicts of interest were reported.
Limitations
The study may overestimate the workforce and excluded five states due to missing data.
Participant Demographics
Responses were received from 47 states, including the District of Columbia.
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