Mapping opportunities for training in air pollution and health for the health workforce

This report describes the mapping of training programmes in air pollution and health specifically for health workers, with analyses of their strengths and gaps according to nine criteria. The criteria included, for example, the accessibility of training opportunities, the mechanisms for accreditation and the teaching methods used, including the train-the-trainer (TTT) approach, which provides participants with the theory and skills to become trainers in their communities. A total of 18 training programmes were identified from an online survey disseminated to more than 400 health organizations and from interviews with experts and an extensive Internet search.

The mapping demonstrated key requirements and good practices for further programmes on air pollution for health workers. These are a holistic approach to air pollution that includes associated environmental threats to health, both basic knowledge and functional clinical skills related to air pollution and health, accreditation by a reputable, non-partisan organization, use of effective teaching methods such as TTT, frameworks and tools for assessing acquired skills and competence, learning and teaching resources for participants and trainers, barrier-free access, guidance on programme follow-up and encouragement of programme graduates to conduct community-based advocacy on air pollution and health.

The findings of this report demonstrate that the health workforce is ready for innovative programmes on air pollution and health. As WHO becomes a lifelong learning organiza- tion and strengthens its activities in capacity-building through the WHO Academy, which plans to reach 10 million learners by 2023, the development and implementation of training programmes will be a priority.