Document Type
Article
Abstract
Introduction
In light of persistent health inequities, this commentary describes the critical role of maternal and child health (MCH) graduate training in schools and programs of public health (SPPH) and illustrates linkages between key components of MCH pedagogy and practice to 2021 CEPH competencies.
Methods
In 2018, a small working group of faculty from the HRSA/MCHB-funded Centers of Excellence (COEs) was convened to define the unique contributions of MCH to SPPH and to develop a framework using an iterative and consensus-driven process. The working group met 5 times and feedback was integrated from the broader faculty across the 13 COEs. The framework was further revised based on input from the MCHB/HRSA-funded MCH Public Health Catalyst Programs and was presented to senior MCHB leaders in October 2019.
Results
We developed a framework that underscores the critical value of MCH to graduate training in public health and the alignment of core MCH training components with CEPH competencies, which are required of all SPPH for accreditation. This framework illustrates MCH contributions in education, research and evaluation, and practice, and underscores their collective foundation in the life course approach.
Conclusions
This new framework aims to enhance training for the next generation of public health leaders. It is intended to guide new, emerging, and expanding SPPH that may currently offer little or no MCH content. The framework invites further iteration, adaptation and customization to the range of diverse and emerging public health programs across the nation.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Publication Info
Published in Maternal and Child Health Journal, Volume 26, Issue Suppl 1, 2022, pages 121-128.
Rights
© The Author(s) 2022
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APA Citation
Deardorff, J., Michelle Menser Tissue, Elliott, P., Handler, A., Vamos, C., Bonilla, Z., Turchi, R., Cecilia Sem Obeng, Liu, J., & Grason, H. (2022). The Critical Value of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) to Graduate Training in Public Health: A Framework to Guide Education, Research and Practice. Maternal and Child Health Journal, 26(S1), 121–128. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-022-03401-w