Assessing public health training in Southeast Asia and the United Kingdom: A comparison of competency development for delivering the Essential Public Health Functions

Abstract

Objectives This study mapped public health training programmes across the 10 ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries to assess their scope, capacity, and alignment with national and regional health needs, considering both medical and non-medical tracks. The United Kingdom's public health training programme was included as a benchmark with its long history and focus on prevention amid demographic and epidemiological changes. Study design A mixed-method descriptive study that maps, compares, and analyses public health training structures and alignment with the World Health Organisation Essential Public Health Functions (EPHFs) across multiple countries. Methods A two-stage approach was used: a scoping review of peer-reviewed literature on core public health professional and specialist training linked to national authority bodies, followed by national and institutional data curation by subject matter experts on national policies, training curricula, and institutional programmes. Results Training structures, delivery models, duration, and certification varied widely. Most ASEAN countries offered separate training pathways for medical and non-medical professionals, with programmes at bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programmes. The UK provided a unified, competency-based training scheme open to both groups, including a master's and a portfolio route for specialist recognition. Training that covered the 12 EPHFs had been delivered through academic, workplace, or combined models. Public health workforce plans existed in most countries except for Brunei Darussalam and Vietnam. Conclusions This first systematic analysis highlights the diversity of public health training in the ASEAN region, reflecting differences in institutional maturity, policies, resources, and population health contexts. Strengthening the public health workforce requires increased regional collaboration, investment, and harmonised competency-based training. Leveraging the experience of the UK model, ASEAN can work towards standardised curricula and expanded access through multisectoral entry pathways, enabling coordinated workforce development aligned with health priorities.