The factor analysis of core competency for public health technical officer working in primary care units to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 in Chonburi province

Abstract

               The purpose of this survey research aimed to investigate the components of competency among public health technical officers working in primary healthcare units for preventing the spread of COVID-19 in Chonburi province. The convenient random sample comprised 230 public health workers collected data from May to June 2023. Data analysis utilized exploratory factor analysis with orthogonal rotation method and varimax was applied to identify the number of competency indicators, yielding a total of 37 indicators. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to assess the appropriateness of the data. Results revealed three primary components: knowledge, skills, and personality traits.

               In terms of knowledge, the component weights for epidemiological knowledge of diseases, analysis and planning, and public health management were 0.92,0.93, and 0.55 respectively. Regarding shills, the components weights for public health service delivery, health data management, teamwork and collaboration, and utilization of technology and innovation were 0.76,0.87,0.87, and 0.91 respectively.
As for personal traits, the component weights for personal attributes, interpersonal skills, and professional ethic were 0.64, 0.83, and 0.76 respectively. All three components demonstrated high suitability at a significant level (KMO = 0.70) and the Bartlett's Test of Sphericity was P < 0.001.