Evaluation of an online training for improving self-reported evidence-based decision-making skills in cancer control among public health professionals

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this evaluation was to assess the effect of the online evidence-based cancer control (EBCC) training on improving the self-reported evidence-based decision-making (EBDM) skills in cancer control among Nebraska public health professionals.

Study design: Cross-sectional group comparison.

Methods: Previously developed EBDM measures were administered via online surveys to 201 public health professionals at baseline (comparison group) and 123 professionals who took part in the training. Respondents rated the importance of and their skill level in 18 EBCC skills. Differences were examined using analysis of variance models adjusted for gender, age, years at agency, and years in position, and stratified by respondent educational attainment.

Results: Among professionals without an advanced degree, training participants reported higher overall skill scores (P = .016) than the baseline non-participant group, primarily driven by differences in the partnerships and collaboration and evaluation domains. No differences in importance ratings were observed. Among professionals with advanced degrees, there were no differences in skill scores and small differences in importance scores in the expected direction (P < .05). Respondents at baseline rated the following facilitators for EBDM as important: expectations from agency leaders and community partners, high priority placed on EBDM by leadership, trainings, and positive feedback. They also reported using a variety of materials for making decisions about programs and policies, though few used individual scientific studies.

Conclusions: EBCC led to improved self-reported EBDM skills among public health professionals without an advanced degree, though a gap remained between the self-reported skills and the perceived importance of the skills. Further research on training content and modalities for professionals with higher educational attainment and baseline skill scores is needed.

Keywords: Cancer control; Evidence-based public health; Online training; Public health workforce.