A new online networking platform for graduates of field epidemiology training programs (FETPs) is expected to help strengthen public health response to disease outbreaks.
Called TEPHIConnect, the platform provides opportunities for more than 10,000 FETP graduates to locate fellow alumni in their areas, share resources and outbreak response opportunities, and identify ways to collaborate on projects. In the future, TEPHIConnect will provide health systems and organizations with access to FETP graduates who can assist with responses to disease outbreaks.
The system was developed by TEPHINET, a program of The Task Force for Global Health that serves as a global network of FETPs.
“TEPHIConnect will continue to evolve to be a useful tool to public health agencies in mobilizing field epidemiologists during health emergencies,” said TEPHINET Director Dionisio Herrera, MD, PhD. “The platform will also support professional development for FETP alumni by ensuring people are aware of training and mentorship opportunities.”
TEPHIConnect is available for FETP alumni at https://tephiconnect.org and as an app for Apple and Android phones.
TEPHIConnect was launched in August at the 9th TEPHINET Global Scientific Conference in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It was developed with input from the Public Health Informatics Institute at The Task Force and support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and a steering committee of global partners representing FETPs.
For media inquiries, please contact Chief Communications and Development Officer Poul Olson at polson@taskforce.org or 404-687-5611.