To meet the global demand for training assistance in tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, a systematic model was created to conduct training-of-trainers courses. The Teachback Methodology curriculum was created using adult learning principles and implemented by collaborating with partners to create training-of-trainers courses. A total of 42 courses were held in 18 countries, resulting in 901 participants being able to enhance their training skills. During training- of-trainers courses, the participants practice teaching a course. Trainers observe the participants' performance and provide feedback on training skills and accuracy of course content. The methodology can be integrated with TB and HIV courses to enhance training capacity and help build a competent workforce.

INTRODUCTION: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s National Tuberculosis Surveillance System (NTSS) is the national repository of tuberculosis (TB) data in the United States. Jurisdictions report to NTSS through the Report of Verified Case of Tuberculosis (RVCT) form that transitioned to a web-based system in 2009. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To improve RVCT data quality, CDC conducted a quality assurance (QA) needs assessment to develop QA strategies. These include QA components (case detection, data accuracy, completeness, timeliness, data security, and confidentiality); sample tools such as National TB Indicators Project (NTIP) to identify TB case reporting discrepancies; comprehensive training course; resource guide and toolkit. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: During July-September 2011, 73 staff from 34 (57%) of 60 reporting jurisdictions participated in QA training. Participants stated usefulness of sharing jurisdictions' QA methods; 66 (93%) wrote that the QA tools will be effective for their activities. Several jurisdictions reported implementation of QA tools pertinent to their programs. Data showed >8% increase in NTSS and NTIP enrollment through Secure Access Management Services, which monitors system usage, from August 2011-February 2012. CONCLUSIONS: Despite challenges imposed by web-based surveillance systems, QA strategies can be developed with innovation and collaboration. These strategies can also be used by other disease programs to ensure high data quality.

OBJECTIVES: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention implemented a national training program for health care workers and surveillance staff to ensure accuracy of data reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Tuberculosis Surveillance System and increase training capacity in tuberculosis surveillance. METHODS: To address the changing epidemiology of tuberculosis and related reporting requirements, a working group of tuberculosis experts revised the Report of Verified Case of Tuberculosis (RVCT), the National Tuberculosis Surveillance System data collection form. The revision prompted a need for training in accurately completing the form. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention interdisciplinary training team collaborated with key partners in assessing health care worker training needs regarding the RVCT. The team conducted 5 field tests to ensure instructional effectiveness of the training materials. Participants worked through materials, shared experiences, asked questions, and stated concerns about the RVCT. On the basis of these inputs, the team developed an innovative and comprehensive training program. RESULTS: The training materials included instructions for completing each item on the RVCT form, case studies to enable participants to apply the instructions to real-life situations, and visual aids to enhance learning. In both quantitative and qualitative responses, participants indicated that the RVCT training course and self-study materials helped them gain the knowledge needed to accurately complete the RVCT. The team conducted 14 facilitator-led courses and trained 343 health care workers and surveillance staff; 82 of these were training-of-trainers participants. CONCLUSIONS: Collaboration and innovation are essential in implementing an effective national surveillance-training program to ensure the accurate collection and reporting of tuberculosis surveillance data.