For the first time, the Department of Public Health, Management, Policy, and Economics at the Faculty of Public Health of Tbilisi State Medical University conducted the Objective Structured Public Health Examination (OSPHE) an innovative assessment method designed to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and practical competencies in public health education.

The OSPHE represents an advanced evaluation format that has been implemented in several countries worldwide. It is based on the principles of the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), widely used in medical education, but is specifically adapted for the public health field. Unlike traditional examinations, OSPHE measures not only theoretical understanding but also practical skills, such as critical analysis, rapid and evidence-based decision-making, and effective communication. This approach enables public health students to develop key competencies essential for managing modern healthcare systems from the early stages of their academic journey.

The pilot OSPHE assessment was held within the course “Health Policy and Management” and involved sixth-semester students enrolled in the academic programs Public Health and Public Health and Management. The examination consisted of six stations, where students were required to analyze various scenarios, evaluate information, and make appropriate decisions within a set timeframe. At each station, students were assessed based on five standardized criteria, ensuring objectivity, fairness, and consistency throughout the process.

According to the post-examination survey, students expressed high satisfaction with the new assessment methodology. The OSPHE was conducted in a test format within a single course, laying a strong foundation for its further development and refinement into a comprehensive evaluation model. The insights gained from this pilot initiative will significantly contribute to enhancing the quality of the educational process and aligning student assessment standards with contemporary international practices and the emerging characteristics of modern public health, which emphasize innovation and adaptability in both teaching and evaluation.

The Faculty of Public Health at Tbilisi State Medical University continuously introduces innovative methods of teaching and assessment, ensuring high-quality education and fostering the development of qualified professionals who are prepared to respond effectively and successfully to the complex challenges of modern public health.