The Current Situation and Estimation of Human Resources in the Field of Biology and Vector Control of Diseases in Iran



Fatemi M¹ ; Yaghoobiershadi MR² ; Rassi Y² ; Sedaghat MM² ; Vatandoost H² ; Bayat M³ ; Zarabi M⁴ ; Nikpoor F⁴ ; Akhavan AA² Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Payavard Salamat Published:2024

Abstract

Background and Aim: Training and proper distribution of human resources are essential for maintaining and promoting society’s health. The first step in any health-related planning is to assess the current situation to draw a clear picture of the future to balance demand and supply. This research was conducted to assess the current situation of medical entomology and vector control/biology and vector control of the diseases in the country and determine the required human resources till 2025. Materials and Methods: In this study, a “modified and combination model” was used, including the Hall model, which is location-based, and the Australian health workforce estimation model, which is a needs-based approach. The research was carried out in multiple stages, which included collecting the required data (number of faculty members, students, and graduates), the number of private companies providing spraying, and pest control services in all cities of the country and finally holding meetings with the board members of Biology and vector control of diseases and experts to estimate the human resources required in this field. Results: Based on the data collected and face-to-face interviews conducted during six sessions with the experts in this field, it has been estimated that a total of 985 graduates have been trained in this discipline to date, while there is a requirement for 1,338 graduates in this area. Consequently, it is essential to train an additional 353 individuals in this field by the year 2025. In light of the country’s sixth five-year development plan, which allocates 30 percent of the total student population to postgraduate studies, it is imperative to prepare 35 individuals at the doctoral level, 71 at the master’s level, and 247 at the undergraduate level. Conclusion: It seems that by accepting an average of 9 people at the Ph.D. level, 18 people at the master’s level, and 62 people at the bachelor’s level, in addition to matching the amount of demand and supply, there will be no problem for the employment of the graduates of this field. © 2024 the Authors.