Abstract
To describe results of a 2008 assessment of Title V workforce competencies and training needs at the state level, and examine preferences and barriers related to available education and training opportunities. A web-based survey was administered May through August, 2008 to Maternal and Child Health (MCH) and Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) program leaders in all 50 states, and U.S. jurisdictions. Forty-nine MCH (96%) and 44 CYSHCN (86%) programs and four territories completed surveys. A major focus of the survey related to competencies in six core domains: Public Health/Title V Knowledge Base, Communication, Critical Thinking, Management Skills, Family Centered Care and Medical Home, and Leadership Development. The top training needs identified by state Title V programs fall into the global category of critical thinking, including skills in MCH data synthesis and translation, in program evaluation, and in systems thinking. The need to enhance personal rather than organizational leadership skills was emphasized. Blended learning approaches (graduate education), and national conferences with skills building workshops (continuing education) were identified as preferred training modalities. Barriers to training included lack of career opportunities, insufficient agency support, and inability to take leave (graduate education), and travel restrictions, release time limitations, costs, and limited geographic access (continuing education). Both the focus of training and preferred training modalities differed from previous MCH workforce survey findings. Given the changing needs expressed by state Title V leaders as well as their training preferences, it is important that current and future graduate education and continuing education approaches be better aligned to meet these needs and preferences.
Highlights
State Title V programs charged under the 1935 Social Security Act with responsibility for ensuring the health of all mothers and children have a respected track record of addressing the needs of the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) population, identifying and responding to emerging trends with a focus on prevention, and developing systems of care
The top training needs identified by state Title V programs fall into the global category of critical thinking, including skills in MCH data synthesis and translation, in program evaluation, and in systems thinking
Barriers to training included lack of career opportunities, insufficient agency support, and inability to take leave, and travel restrictions, release time limitations, costs, and limited geographic access. Both the focus of training and preferred training modalities differed from previous MCH workforce survey findings
Summary
State Title V programs charged under the 1935 Social Security Act with responsibility for ensuring the health of all mothers and children have a respected track record of addressing the needs of the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) population, identifying and responding to emerging trends with a focus on prevention, and developing systems of care. MCH is a substantial portion of the work of public health agencies, at the local and state levels. The scope of program activities is configured to best address the population needs and resources in that state. A focus on MCH workforce needs is made urgent in a severe economic downturn, with state budgets strained and public health agencies furloughing staff that are already stretched to their limits. State public health agencies and their Title V programs are being substantially downsized as a result of unparalleled state deficits at the very same time that they are facing the dilemma of an aging workforce. A recent study indicates that 80 percent of public health workers have not received formal training in their specific job functions. (5)
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