Improving medical education

Abstract

Changes in the curricula of medical school training are needed to emphasize the role of oral rehydration therapy (ORT) in the management of acute diarrhea. In the Philippines, the Task Force on Pediatric Education has promoted a focus on such low-cost, highly effective health technologies in the competency-based pediatrics curriculum. The learning objectives emphasize practical skills and opportunities for hands-on experience. Teaching is conducted in the community, ambulatory care areas, wards, and ORT corners. Alternative teaching methods such as role playing, group discussions, and direct patient interaction are used to communicate to medical students the usefulness of ORT and the skills needed for its proper application. Deans and chairmen of the pediatric departments of all 26 medical schools in the Philippines have committed themselves to offering curricular programs on the management of diarrhea. Medical opposition to the use of ORT in diarrhea management, the major obstacle in the past, is expected to be diminished as a result of this effort.