Strengthening teaching of human reproduction population dynamics and family welfare in medical colleges in india
Roy, S.; Banerjee, A.
Health and Population Perspectives and Issues 10(2): 63-92
1987
ISSN/ISBN: 0253-6803 Document Number: 373810
Considering the seriousness of uncontrolled population growth in the country, the urgent need for population control through family welfare programme has been well recognised at different levels. The medical profession can play a very important role in various ways. Unfortunately, it is noted that they are not playing their role adequately. In that context, strengthening of teaching and training of medical graduates in the field of human reproduction, family planning and population dynamics assumes great importance. This need has been felt by the Government, the Medical Council of India (MCI), the medical educators, the family planning experts and the deans of medical colleges. The MCI has made broad recommendations and the World Health Organisation (SEARO) had developed detailed guidelines for strengthening teaching and training in this field, and orientation training courses and workshops have been organised in the past for the teachers in medical colleges. Additional inputs have been made through post-partum programmes in medical colleges for strengthening teaching in this field. Inspite of all these developments, great gaps have continued to persist. In this paper, all aspects have been discussed in considerable details with the object of reorienting the faculty in medical colleges to various important issues. Steps have been suggested which would enable them to make self-appraisal of their teaching/training programmes, find out gaps and take corrective measures. Special attention needs to be given for developing proper skill and attitude. Teachers' training in educational technology and their periodic reorientation in the field of population and family welfare would be important. In addition, the medical colleges should take the responsibility of providing continuing education including in-service training of the medical officers employed in the health services in the country. The teachers connected with the postpartum programme can undertake training of the medical officers at primary health centres in contraceptive technology and its delivery.