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Julia E. Oler-Manske, MS1, Shirley Orr, MHS, ARNP, CNAA2, Craig A. Molgaard, PhD, MPH1, Deborah B. Fromer, MPH1, Susan Popejoy, BS1, Germaine Hall1, Becky Gruhn3, Rosalee Zackula-David, MS4, and Edie Snethen5. (1) Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita, 1010 N. Kansas Avenue, Wichita, KS 67214, 316-293-2627, jolerman@kumc.edu, (2) Office of Local and Rural Health, Kansas Department of Health and Environment, 1000 SW Jackson, Suite 340, Suite 340, Topeka, KS 66612-1365, (3) West Central Iowa Healthcare Foundation, 320 Main Street, Manning, IA 51455, (4) Department of Research, University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita, 1010 N. Kansas, Wichita, KS 67214, (5) Kansas Association of Local Health Departments, 6206 SW 9th Terrace, Topeka, KS 66615-3822
Background: The Kansas Association of Local Health Departments (KALHD) identified a deficiency in computer skills for the public health workforce in Kansas. Bioterrorism training funds have enabled many local health departments to obtain computers and/or updated technology. As a result, local health department employees repeatedly expressed a desire to increase their basic computer skills competencies. The Chautauqua Project will fulfill the identified need to provide basic computer skills training for local health department workers in Kansas. Methods: The Chautauqua Project utilized Kenexa Prove It skills assessment software and on-site training in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook. Training was individual specific according to level of ability based on the Prove It assessments. On-site training occurred at the local health departments utilizing Dell laptop computers. Post skills assessments and evaluations were administered prior to training sessions. Results: Pilot sites included 39, 59, and 160 individuals at NW region, Lyon County and Sedgwick County respectively. After participating in the Chautauqua Project, employees at the pilot sites significantly increased their basic informatics competency level. This increase in technological skills will enable them to preform their jobs more effectively and give them confidence in their abilities to continue to utilize technology at their work site. Implications: An educated and prepared local public health workforce will serve as a catalyst for improving the overall health of Kansas and aid to preparedness activities. Nearly 1,500 participants could benefits from this training each year.
Learning Objectives:
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.