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A Global Survey of Occupational Health Competencies and Curriculum
GEORGE L. DELCLOS, MD, MPH, KARIE A. BRIGHT, RN, MPH,, ARCH I. CARSON, MD, PHD, SARAH A FELKNOR, DRPH, MS, THOMAS A MACKEY, NP-C, PHD, MARIA T MORANDI, PHD, CIH, LAWRENCE J. H. SCHULZE, PHD, PE, LAWRENCE W WHITEHEAD, PHD, CIH
Abstract
The World Health Organization has identified a worldwide
shortage of occupational health professionals, but
evidence suggests that the work and education of these
professionals vary across countries. This survey examined
the professional development of occupational
physicians, occupational nurses, industrial hygienists,
and ergonomists in terms of practice competencies and
academic curriculum. Of 89 countries that received the
survey, 48 (54%) responded. Important differences in
competencies and curricula were identified for all
groups. More competencies were identified more frequently
in developed countries. Academic programs
existed more often in developed countries, but curriculum
contents varied. The study provides a concrete
reference point for discussion and development of
competencies and curriculum.
shortage of occupational health professionals, but
evidence suggests that the work and education of these
professionals vary across countries. This survey examined
the professional development of occupational
physicians, occupational nurses, industrial hygienists,
and ergonomists in terms of practice competencies and
academic curriculum. Of 89 countries that received the
survey, 48 (54%) responded. Important differences in
competencies and curricula were identified for all
groups. More competencies were identified more frequently
in developed countries. Academic programs
existed more often in developed countries, but curriculum
contents varied. The study provides a concrete
reference point for discussion and development of
competencies and curriculum.
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