About FETP

WHAT IS FETP?

Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) is originated from the US CDC Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) in 1951. Now there are over 3000 trained professionals in the US CDC EIS.
There are more than 40 countries with their own FETP. Global network of FETP works under TEPHINET. FETP is applying the theory of epidemiology to a public health issue with the objective of understanding how best to prevent and control disease.

WHY FETP?

Applied epidemiology programs are to help the countries develop, set up, and implement dynamic, public health strategies to improve and strengthen their public health system and infrastructure.

GOAL OF FETP

The primary goal of an FETP is to improve the health of a country’s or region’s population by providing essential public health services to the country, training a cadre of public health workers who work on priority issues in the country, and strengthening the public health systems capacity and infrastructure of the country.

CORE CAPACITY OF FETP

The fundamental principle of applied epidemiology is the application of evidence-based science to achieve public health objectives. The use of epidemiologic skills to identify public health problems, measure risk factors, and design and evaluate public health programs contributes to improving the health of the public

The graduates of FETP will have core capacities in:

• Investigation of outbreaks and health emergencies,
• Strengthen surveillance systems through evaluation and managing surveillance system,
• Strengthening the scientific basis for program and policy decisions to prevent and control diseases and conditions—the key to public health impact
• Strengthening the communication of epidemiologic information by contributing to the national epidemiology bulletin, publishing journal articles, and presenting surveillance data to decision makers.

HOW FETP WORKS?

After introductory course in the classroom (25%), the trainees are assigned for field assignments (75%). ‘Learn by doing’ approaches — hands-on practice in real-life situations is the main principle of the FETP. The trainees are instructed supervisors who provide ongoing feedback, guidance, recommendations and follow-up.
While in class, trainees take courses in epidemiology, communications, economics, and management. They also learn about quantitative-and behavior-based strategies.
In the field, trainees conduct epidemiologic investigations and field surveys, evaluate surveillance systems, perform disease control and prevention measures, report their findings to decision-makers and policy-makers, and train other health workers.