NCSD is excited to share the achievement of a major milestone in the effort to establish a national certification program for Disease Intervention Specialists (DIS). A key component of our work over the past three years was determining the most appropriate model of certification for DIS. Based on our findings and expert consultation, a recommendation was made to the CDC to pursue the development of a test-based model. We look forwarding to continuing our partnership with CDC, NACCHO, and other key partners as we move into the next phase of DIS certification program development. Check out this video to learn more about DIS certification and the foundational efforts that were undertaken over the past three years.

Many local and state health department DIS and other program staff supported these efforts, including completing a job task analysis survey, serving as subject matter experts and participating in project-related meetings, and helping to spread the word and generate support for DIS certification. Participation from the field was critical to ensuring that each step of this process has been informed by the needs of DIS, program directors, and local and state health officials. Additionally, our National Advisory Committee, which included national, state, and local stakeholders in HIV, STD, TB, emergency preparedness, workforce development, and health department accreditation, was instrumental to ensuring the success of this important phase of the DIS certification development process. Thank you to the National Advisory Committee and the many DIS and other health department staff that contributed to this work.

NCSD will provide ongoing updates to our members and partners as the work towards DIS certification program development continues.  Stay tuned for a future announcement of a project page dedicated to DIS.  In the meantime, you can search our new resource page for DIS-related materials.