Update on Validity of Required Competencies for Worksite Health Professionals

Abstract

Background: To improve global health, the workforce capacity of health promotion professionals must be strengthened through the provision of competencies necessary to deliver effective programs. Purpose: This study provides an updated analysis of the validity of the worksite health promotion (WHP) professional competencies developed in 2000 by the Association for Worksite Health Promotion (AWHP). Competencies and subcompetencies included were in the areas of business, program coordination, and human resources, as well as education and experience requirements. Methods: Study participants were recruited through 3 professional organizations that distributed recruitment letters electronically to their members. Letters requested that participants complete an online survey on the current importance of the AWHP competencies. Results: A substantial majority of the respondents rated the 3 competency areas, the subcompetencies included under those areas, and the education and experience requirements as either somewhat important or essential. Discussion: The study findings reestablish the importance of the core professional competencies developed in the 2000 by the AWHP and revalidated in a 2004 follow-up study and suggest that these competencies are still highly relevant for today's WHP professionals. Translation to Health Education Practice: The validated WHP professional competencies serve as a foundation for designing appropriate curricula for the training of current and future health professionals.