The objective of this research was to measure and report Ohio Department of Health (ODH) employees' self-identified proficiency and ability related to the Council on Linkages Tier 2 Competencies for Public Health Professionals (COL).

An online survey instrument was deployed to 517 ODH employees in the summer of 2010 (response rate 70 percent). Employees responded to three questions: (1) importance of competency to work; (2) self-reported abilitiy; and (3) interest in future training. A four-point Likert-type scale was utilized for responses. A "need score" was calculated for each sub-competency by subtracting the respondent's importance score from the ability score. Scores ranged from -3 to +3, with a negative score indicating a gap or need for training. Additionally, workers identified barriers and motivators for participating in training as well as preferred methods for training delivery.

In 2011, this workforce assessment instrument and reporting protocol will be used in local public health agencies throughout Ohio. The researchers expect that data collection will be completed by the conference and can be presented as part of this proposed session.

From a state perspective, the data from both the state and local surveys will be used to inform the development of a statewide workforce and organizational development plan. It will allow for data-informed decision-making regarding the provision of future training and organizational development services at both the local and state levels. ODH is using the data from the survey to support statewide public health workforce development and performance improvement initiatives. ODH is a beta test site for accreditation. These data are central to the successful demonstration of PHAB Accreditation Standard 8.2B.