Applications of Delphi Method in construction of the core competences evaluation index system for the doctor of public health

Abstract

Objective To construct the core competences evaluation index system for the doctor of public health (DrPH), and provide effective theoretical basis and reference indicators for the education of the DrPH in China. Methods This study established a preliminary questionnaire for expert consultation by using literature research method, comparative research method and thematic group discussion method. Two rounds of expert consultations about indexes by means of the Delphi method were carried out to form the final core competence evaluation index system for the DrPH. Analytic hierarchy process was used to determine the weight of each index. Results The final evaluation index system was consisted of 7 first level indexes, 18 second level indexes and 48 third level indexes. Conclusion The positive coefficient, authority coefficient and coordination coefficient of the two rounds of expert consultation are all high, which can provide method reference and theoretical basis for the core competence training and evaluation of the DrPH.