STUDENT OUTBREAK RESPONSE TEAM

Abstract

Due to limited funding, aging employees, and diminished recruitment of new personnel, there are gaps in the public health workforce. Graduate Student Epidemiology Response Programs (GSERPs), could provide a solution for these gaps. GSERPs are programs typically offered by accredited Master of Public Health programs or colleges to assist local health agencies in times of need. These teams offer participating students opportunities to gain on-the-job training and apply classroom-based knowledge to public health settings. GSERPs benefit local health departments by supplying additional assistance when needed. Kansas State University does not have a recognized GSERP. With the assistance of the Riley County Health Department, the Student Outbreak Response Team was established in January 2018. This team was created by researching established GSERPs (Team-Epi Aid at the University of North Carolina, the Student Outbreak Response Team at Emory University, and the Student Response Team of the University of Nebraska Medical Center) across the nation and observing the needs of the Manhattan community and the Riley County Health Department. The purpose of this team is to provide additional assistance to the health department during outbreaks or public outreach events, and allow Kansas State Master of Public Health students to obtain professional epidemiology experience outside their degree requirements (i.e. their field experience).