Capacity development for Trauma and Injury Research in Vietnam: the Johns Hopkins University-Hanoi School of Public Health Trauma and Injury Research Program (JHU-Hanoi TRIP)

Abstract

Objectives: To strengthen Vietnam’s capacity for trauma and injury research by addressing the shortage of trained personnel and enhancing intersectoral collaboration. This paper evaluates the implementation and outcomes of a multi-tiered capacity-building initiative—the JHU-Hanoi TRIP—in strengthening trauma and injury research capacity in Vietnam. Design: This was a longitudinal implementation science study of a capacity-building initiative using both long-term and short-term training strategies. The study incorporated a prospective design focused on training outcomes and institutional capacity development. Setting: The project was implemented in 2016 at Hanoi University of Public Health (HUPH), Vietnam, in conjunction with Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health (JHSPH), United States of America. Participants: Between 2016 and 2020, five cohorts of MPH students (n = 36; 26 female, 10 male; mean age: 29 years) specialized in injury and trauma research. Participants were selected based on academic and professional criteria. Interventions: At the individual level, a fully funded injury and trauma concentration was embedded within the existing Master of Public Health (MPH) program. Trainees received comprehensive training with practical skills and hands-on experience in injury prevention, tailored to the local context. At the institutional level, we focused on establishing the Hanoi University of Public Health Center for Injury Policy and Prevention Research (HUPH-CIPPR) as a leading center for injury and trauma research through development of collaborative research, proposals, and strengthening of educational structures. At the national level, a symposium was facilitated between 215 researchers and policymakers. Primary and secondary outcomes: Primary outcomes included the number of students completing the injury prevention concentration, their research outputs, and subsequent employment in injury research. Secondary outcomes included HUPH’s capacity to sustain research and the degree of intersectoral collaboration fostered at national workshops. Results: From 2016 to 2020, the program trained total 36 students and 240 faculty and professionals through short-term trainings. The forum hosted 3 research symposia, 30 seminars, and 6 national biannual workshops in Vietnam. Additionally, 19 scientific articles, including 18 in Vietnamese and one in English were published by student participants. Conclusions: A multi-tiered, collaborative approach integrated within existing academic structures can enhance research capacity and program sustainability. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.