Korean J Med Educ.  2019 Sep;31(3):227-237. 10.3946/kjme.2019.133.

Applying a mixed methods design for needs assessment of an international fellowship training program for Mongolian health professions

• Amgalan N
• Shin JS
• Lee SH
• Badamdorj
• Yoon HB

• KMID: 2456180
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3946/kjme.2019.133

Abstract

PURPOSE
Continuing professional development is essential for improving health care services, especially in developing countries. Most of the training programs in Mongolia were not based on a targeted needs assessment. Therefore, we aimed to apply a mixed methods design to assess the training needs of Mongolian health professions.
METHODS
We conducted a needs assessment using a convergent parallel mixed methods design in two steps. The survey and interview questions were developed to identify priority areas, targeted trainees, and effective training methods. A survey on 60 respondents, 15 individual interviews, and a focus group interview with 14 participants were conducted in the first step. In the second step, 12 representatives of key stakeholders were invited to a second focus group interview.
RESULTS
Current health policy areas, areas related to future national plans, and areas not currently receiving governmental or international support were suggested as the main priorities. The stakeholder suggested that trainees should be selected based on their professional experience and language level, as well as each hospital's needs. Building teams including various professions, such as nurses, technicians, and biomedical engineers, was recommended as a way to exchange ideas with each other and to build teamwork for future collaboration.
CONCLUSION
Medical training needs are dynamic and complex; therefore, a deep understanding of the context and setting is necessary. In this study, we assessed the targeted training needs of Mongolian health professions through a mixed methods design, which could be an effective way to conduct needs assessments for training programs.

Keyword

A mixed methods design; Needs assessment; Training program; Health professions

MeSH Terms

Cooperative Behavior
Delivery of Health Care
Developing Countries
Education*
Fellowships and Scholarships*
Focus Groups
Health Occupations*
Health Policy
Methods*
Mongolia
Needs Assessment*
Surveys and Questionnaires