Survey and situation analysis of personal, employer-related, and environmental factors affecting participation in continuous professional development (CPD) programs of laboratory professionals in Africa.

OBJECTIVES:To determine the level and evaluate factors affecting the participation of laboratory professionals in continuous professional development (CPD) programs in eastern and southern Africa. METHODS:A survey was conducted among laboratory professionals from 14 countries. The CPD participation was defined as low if it was fewer than 2 CPD trainings in the past 2 years. Associations between categorical variables were tested for significance using Fisher exact test. RESULTS:Of the expected 400, 283 (70% response rate) individuals participated in the survey. Of these, 153 (54%) had low CPD participation and 199 (70%) were aware of CPD educational activities in their respective country. Those with diploma certificates attended more CPD programs (P < .001) than those with undergraduate and master's degrees. Awareness of CPD programs was associated with a higher level of CPD participation (P = .0001). Job satisfaction was significantly associated with high levels of CPD participation (P = .02). Other factors associated with high level of participation in CPD programs included affordability (P = .03), funding by employer (P = .0005), and awareness of legal CPD requirements (P = .002). CONCLUSIONS:The CPD programs are considered useful to an individual's professional development, although there was low participation. It is recommended that different formats and platforms be used to expand CPD programs.