Preparedness for infectious diseases: assessing training gaps among Italian healthcare professionals

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic exposed gaps in healthcare preparedness. Strengthening health professionals’ competencies is essential for effective infectious disease response. This study aimed to assess training needs to inform targeted educational strategies and enhance emergency preparedness. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted within a project funded by the Italian Ministry of Health. Healthcare personnel from the project's partner institutions were administered an online questionnaire. The questionnaire included a sociodemographic section and two tailored modules: one for clinicians and one for public health professionals. Data were collected between February and April 2025. Training needs were evaluated by comparing perceived importance and performance across key competencies using the Borich Needs Assessment Model (BNAM) and the Locus for Focus Model. Descriptive and univariable analyses were conducted. Results A total of 239 professionals completed the survey (80 clinical staff and 159 public health workers). The gap between perceived importance and self-assessed performance was statistically significant for all items. According to the BNAM, the highest priority areas for clinicians were “Internal emergency plan for mass casualty incidents” (score: 7.02) and “Criteria for the confirmation and releasing of patients from isolation” (score: 6.00). Among public health professionals, the most critical training needs were “Communication plans and strategies” (score: 7.69) and “Analysis of essential services to maintain operational” (score: 7.53). These preliminary findings were corroborated by the Locus for Focus Model, confirming these items as top-priority educational targets. Conclusions The significant discrepancy between perceived importance and performance underscores the urgent need for structured training programs. The identification of priority areas provides valuable guidance for the development of tailored educational interventions. Key messages • Significant gaps exist between perceived importance and performance in emergency preparedness competencies among Italian healthcare workers. • Assessing training needs is essential to designing targeted programs and strengthening readiness for infectious disease crises.