Developing a training course to enhance the potential of public health personnel in disease surveillance, prevention, control, and health hazard management on the Chiang Mai border

Abstract

Background: The capacity of the service unit's public health service system can be enhanced by the performance and preparedness of its workforce, particularly in border regions that demand highly qualified human resources.

Objective: This study aimed to develop a training course to enhance the capacity of public health personnel in disease surveillance, prevention, control, and health hazard management on the Chiang Mai border, and to develop the implementation of the curriculum to enhance the potential of public health personnel in disease surveillance, prevention, control, and health hazard management in the border areas of Chiang Mai Province.

Method: This research was a research and development (R&D) conducted during October 2024 – February 2025 in 5 Chiang Mai border area. It consisted of 4 phases: Phase 1: study and analyze baseline data. The target population was 137 public health personnel in the border area by using questionnaires and 30 personnel were selected for focus group discussions. In Phase 2, a training program was developed to enhance the capacity of public health personnel in disease surveillance, prevention, control, and health hazard management on the Chiang Mai Border by 10 experts and stakeholders. Phase 3, a pilot implementation with 30 public health workers in border. Knowledge was tested before and after the implementation course. Phase 4, an evaluation and assessment of implementation of a training course. Descriptive analyses were employed and to compare before and after training knowledge score using Paired t-test statistics at a significant level of 0.05.

Results: Phase 1, survey findings indicated that personnel demonstrated a strong need for capacity enhancement. Phase 2, drafting a curriculum for capacity development in disease and health hazard surveillance, prevention, and control for public health personnel working in the border areas of Chiang Mai Province, comprising six learning modules as follows: (1) communicable diseases and emerging-re-emerging diseases, surveillance system management, and disease prevention and control in border areas; (2) application of digital technology and information systems for disease and health hazard surveillance and control; (3) health hazards and public health risks in border areas; (4) public health laws and regulations concerning disease and health hazard control; (5) health communication and community cooperation; and (6) community participation skills. Phase 3, curriculum implementation testing showed the highest level of satisfaction. The knowledge measurement found that knowledge scores before and after the training were significantly different (p < 0.05) in all aspects. Phase 4, evaluation and improvement of implementation planning revealed that learning techniques should be enhanced, learning time extended, and evaluation activities increased in actual field settings.  There was a suggestion to have an annual training plan should be established for public health personnel in the border areas of Chiang Mai Province.

Conclusion: The study concludes that a capacity-building training program in disease surveillance, prevention, control, and health hazard management for public health personnel working in border areas of Chiang Mai is essential and should be continuously implemented. Moreover, strengthening these capacities will enhance service efficiency and reinforce the public health system in border areas, enabling a more effective response to future health challenges.