Teaching

Abstract

The teaching of leprosy in countries with developed health services is a worth-while activity. At least three reasons for this spring to mind. Firstly, there is considerable room for improvement in the diagnosis, classification, and management of individual cases. Secondly, the application of existing knowledge, including that concerned with multiple drug therapy, could lead to the virtual eradication of leprosy in many countries. Thirdly, the vast resources of education, professional experience and technology, backed in some cases by the provision of money, should help to contribute significantly to the eventual control of leprosy in developed - and developing - countries. It is revealed to consider how the education and level of awareness of the average doctor in a developed country may be improved in the matter of recognition and management of this disease. Approaches to be considered are: 1. The writing of a concise curriculum, with basic teaching modules, for various grades of health workers, with particular emphasis on medical students. 2. The dynamic, positive distribution of existing health-learning materials on leprosy, written and audio-visual, to all those who are likely to need them. 3. The fullest possible development of video-tape, in appropriate languages, to cover essential aspects of the teaching problem, in a way that will 'replace' the living teacher. 4. The creation of demonstration centres or rooms at strategic points in each country for the display of materials and equipment for teaching-learning in leprosy.