Preliminary data for implementing a model OHS training curriculum for primary health care providers

Introduction
The current model in the US and elsewhere is to provide occupational health services through professionals, individuals with graduate or residency training in occupational health. However, lack of resources and expertise among primary health care providers limits access to occupational health services. A pilot study was conducted to assess the feasibility and interest in translating an established and tested World Health Organization (WHO) occupational health and safety (OHS) training curriculum into use by primary care providers.

Methods
All accredited family practice residency programs and federally qualified health clinics (FQHC) in Chicago were invited to participate in a focus group discussion to: 1) identify key gaps/needs in current OHS training and activities, 2) discuss facilitators and barriers to implementation of the curriculum at the program/clinic level, and 3) identify programs/clinics interested in participating in a future translational research grant.

Results
About 31.5% (5/16) family medicine residency program representatives and 2.0% (5/25) of the FQHC clinic representatives from the Chicago-area attended the session. Although participation was low, both groups were represented by diverse members of their community. All participants were very receptive to the module/case-based curriculum and stated the need for such OHS curriculum and training. Key barriers identified were: length of the curriculum for residency programs, and adaptability to a clinic setting. Overall is suited for training residents in an academic setting than for nurses and physicians in a clinic. Over 80% of participants expressed interest in participating in a future translational research grant.

Discussion
This case-based WHO curriculum offers flexibility for easy adaptation into existing family medicine residency training. The curriculum provides an opportunity for occupational health training of primary care providers. This model of outreach and training for primary care providers may improve access to occupational health services in the US and other countries in future.