A Train-the-Trainer Approach to Build Community Resilience to the Health Impacts of Climate Change in the Dominican Republic

This study tested a two-day training program to help community members in the Dominican Republic prepare for health risks caused by climate change. The program used a “train-the-trainer” model, where health professionals were trained first, then they taught community members. After the course, participants better understood local climate threats like hurricanes, heat, flooding, air pollution, and disease. They also felt more confident talking to others about climate health risks and protecting their families. The results show that practical, local training can build community knowledge, confidence, and resilience to climate-related health emergencies.