Abstract
Problem:
Wisconsin, and particularly the southeastern region, continues to experience striking health disparities among MCH populations. The state has significant shortage of a trained, competent and diverse workforce to meet these disparities. The only accredited school of public health in the state, the Zilber School lacks a formal MCH training infrastructure.
Goals and objectives:
The overall program goal is to establish an MCH training infrastructure aimed at addressing the shortage of MCH professionals and limited diversity in the workforce.
To accomplish this goal, this program will:
- Expand the ZSPH's graduate curriculum to infuse MCH content into other courses,
- Establish a new certificate in MCH, and
- Recruit and train more racially/ethnically and disadvantaged groups.
Methodology:
Program activities will include: expanding and infusing MCH content into other courses, forming an advisory committee to assist in developing and implementing the MCH certificate, establishing a student-led MCH interest organization, recruiting a diverse pool of students into the program, and building strong partnerships with local and state MCH/Title V programs to enhance the curriculum and identify potential practicum sites for students.
Coordination:
The program will be based at the Zilber School and will have an advisory committee consisting of Zilber School faculty, College of Health Sciences, College of Nursing, and local/state MCH/Title V representatives. The program will work closely with multiple university, local/ state, and community MCH partners. The student-led group will facilitate MCH related activities in the school, university and the community to increase MCH awareness and interest.
Evaluation:
Formative and summative evaluations will be done to assess: 1) curriculum development and delivery, 2) student recruitment and retention, 3) field placement, 4) MCH competency attainment, and 5) employment of graduates. Examples of process metrics include student satisfaction, number enrolled in courses, number in practicum, and participation in student-led activities. Outcome metrics include: number of students graduating, plan for MCH career or employment in MCH field.