Advancing institutionalization and sustainability of field epidemiology training programs in the Eastern Mediterranean region

Bibliographic Data

ID22089122
AuthorsYousef Khader (0000-0002-7830-6857, Jordan University of Science and Technology, corresponding author), Ali Ahmed Al-Waleedi (University of Aden), Sheikh Abdulhafed Al-Shoteri, Sheikh Abdulhafed Alshoteri (0000-0003-0046-2910, University of Aden), Adil Al Wahaibi (0000-0002-5052-0800, Ministry of Health), Adil Said Al Wahaibi, Ahmad Farshid Muhammadi (Ministry of Public Health), Haitham Bashier (0000-0002-9648-5473, Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network), Ayman Bani Mousa (0009-0002-8542-2212, Ministry of Health), Ramez Dwekat (Ministry of Health), Shamaila Usman (0000-0003-1017-359X, National Institute of Health), Abdulla Salem Bin-Ghouth (0000-0002-0884-5361, National University), Abdulla Bin-Ghouth, Hassan Chrifi (0000-0001-8668-2249, Ministère de la Santé), Tareq Al-Hawwash (University of Palestine), Hajer Letaief (National Institute of Meteorology), Zainab Naseer Abbas (Ministry of Science and Technology), Ruba Kamal Alsouri (0000-0002-4901-3772, Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network), Mohammed Akrim (0000-0003-4587-1750, Ministère de la Santé), Mohannad Al Nsour (0000-0003-1212-1611, Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network)
Year2025
Volume13
Pages1669319-1669319
Publication date2025-10-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueFrontiers in Public Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2296-2565 • E-ISSN: 2296-2565
PublisherFrontiers Media SA (PUBLISHER • CH)
DOI10.3389/fpubh.2025.1669319
PMID41103481
OpenAlexW4414713495
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited14

Introduction: Sustaining Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETPs) is critical for long-term public health capacity. Institutionalization-embedding programs within national health systems-is a major step toward sustainability. This manuscript explores the experiences, perceived challenges, and strategies related to the institutionalization, sustainability, and funding of FETPs in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) and offers recommendations to strengthen their long-term integration within national health systems. Methods: A participatory regional workshop was held in Amman from May 18-20, 2025, to review frameworks, share country experiences, and develop sustainability plans. Participants included FETP directors, ministry officials, and alumni from nine countries. Sessions addressed governance, financing, accreditation, career pathways, and stakeholder engagement. Data were synthesized thematically from session notes and program documents. Results: Twenty-eight participants representing Afghanistan, Iraq, Jordan, Pakistan, Palestine, Tunisia, Morocco, Oman, and Yemen attended the regional workshop. Most were experienced public health professionals and FETP graduates. Country teams highlighted the importance and impact of FETP, while funding constraints and undefined career tracks were common challenges. Institutionalization, defined as embedding FETPs into national strategies with government ownership, legal frameworks, and dedicated financing, emerged as a critical priority. Participants recommended shifting to mixed financing models, pursuing accreditation, and linking programs to universities. The lack of career pathways underscore the need for policies recognizing FETP qualifications in promotions. Stakeholder engagement and advocacy were identified as essential for sustaining support. Conclusion: Sustaining FETPs requires deliberate country-led action, stable funding, accreditation, and clear career progression. With committed leadership and regional collaboration, FETPs can evolve into permanent pillars of public health capacity and health security

Institutionalisation · Mediterranean climate · Public health · Sustainability · Public Health Policies and Education · Viral Infections and Outbreaks Research · Zoonotic diseases and public health

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