News at HSPHIn a new Lancet Commission report, 20 professional and academic leaders led by HSPH Dean Julio Frenk call for major reform in the training of doctors and other health care professionals to equip them for the 21st century.
Changes are needed, say the authors, because of fragmented, outdated, and static curricula that produce ill-equipped doctors, nurses, midwives, and public health professionals. They suggest a number of reforms, both instructional and institutional, including adoption of competency-based curricula that are responsive to rapidly changing needs and are adapted to local contexts; promotion of education that breaks down barriers between health care professions and specialties; providing equal opportunities for women and recruiting students from marginalized areas; and nurturing a culture of critical inquiry.
According to the authors, "educational reform is a long and difficult process that demands leadership and requires changing perspectives, work styles, and good relationships between all stakeholders." They call on educators, students, professional bodies, international agencies, and others to "embrace the imperative for reform through dialogue, open exchange, discussion, and debate about these recommendations.” (Source: The Lancet press release)
Video: Dean Frenk answers questions about the commission report
