The Use of Animals in Medical Education-Reply

Abstract

In Reply. —Dr Kaufman's criticism of the use of animals in medical education is not surprising, for it reflects the views of the chairman of a self-professed animal rights group. Contrary to the views stated by Dr Kaufman, the AMA supports the responsible use of animals in medical research and teaching in much the same way as it supports the appropriate use of technology in medicine: after rigorous and carefully thought-out analysis of benefit, risk, and cost. Certainly fellow students, surrogate patients, and even patients represent important learning tools. However, as stated in Ms Foreman's article, most expert opinion recognizes the necessity for the use of animals in medical education and research. It is a bit ironic that Dr Kaufman alludes to a taxpayer's right to demonstrate against a particular biomedical research activity that he or she feels objectionable. Quite often monies collected by animal rights organizations are used to