• Home
  • Needs Assessment of Environmental Health Professionals in Montana: A Post-COVID-19 Perspective

Needs Assessment of Environmental Health Professionals in Montana: A Post-COVID-19 Perspective

Abstract

We designed a cross-sectional study for environmental health (EH) professionals in Montana as a follow-up to a needs assessment conducted in 2020 by the Montana Public Health Workforce Development Group. A 57-question survey was developed to deepen the understanding of the profession regarding demographics, work status and position, education and licensure, work prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic, professional preparation and continuing education, job satisfaction, recruitment and retention, and emerging issues. The survey was administered electronically in 2022 to all health departments in Montana and had a 74% response rate. The results revealed that most EH professionals in Montana are predominately White. Respondents reported being adequately trained but highlighted that additional training would be beneficial. Job-related stress, staffing levels, and salary levels were identified as areas of concern. Furthermore, respondents reported that they are otherwise fulfilled by the purposeful nature of their jobs. Our study was successful in capturing an updated view of the challenges facing EH professionals in Montana. Using these findings, the Montana Environmental Health Association and the Montana Public Health Training Center are developing training solutions for these professionals.

Supplemental Text: Background of the Environmental Health Profession | PDF
Supplemental Survey: Montana Environmental Health Workforce Survey, 2022 | PDF

Publication: Journal of Environmental Health
Volume: 86
Number: 2
Pages: 12-21
Published: September 2023

Authors

  • Seana Westcarr-Gray, MS, JD, University of Montana School of Public and Community Health Sciences
  • Leigh Taggart, MPH, University of Montana School of Public and Community Health Sciences
  • Emily Weiler, Montana Public Health Training Center
  • Jeffrey Havens, RS/REHS, Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
  • Priscilla Oliver, PhD, National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council
  • David P. Gilkey, DC, PhD, REHS, Montana Technological University

Access the Full Article