The Network [of Community-Oriented Educational Institutions for Health Sciences].

Abstract

The Network of Community-Oriented Educational Institutions for Health Sciences was established in 1979 with the following objectives: strengthen member institutions in their realization of both a community health care orientation and a problem-solving approach to learning; strengthen individual faculty capacities related to a community orientation and problem-based learning; develop technologies methodologies and approaches appropriate to a community-oriented and problem-based educational system; promote and coordinate population-based concepts in the health services system and educational program; and assist instititions in countries that have made a political decision to introduce innovations in the training of health personnel with the ultimate foal of contributing to the commitment to health for all by the year 2000. Approximately 40 schools in both developed and developing countries are now members of the Network. A good example of community-oriented education is provided by the University of Ilorin in Nigeria where students and staff spend 1 month in a rural village twice a year. They study disease patterns in the natural environment conduct epidemiologic surveys and contribute to local health care. This experience helps medical students to perceive individual problems in a social context sensitizes them to the importance of both preventive and curative measures and provides them with necessary delivery skills. Other aspects of the Networks activities include workshops information exchanges bilateral contacts consultation activities and publications.