As reform of American health services proceeds, there will be increasing pressure for reform of health professions education. Health professions must restructure their curricula to provide graduates with competencies for future systems. Every college and university has a role; each contributes to the pool of future health care professionals. (MSE)

The Argus Commission, asked to examine the interface between academic pharmacy and education programs in dentistry, optometry, and podiatry, envisioned a primary health care team and considered mechanisms for encouraging development of such teams and reducing competition. Its conclusions and recommendations are summarized here. (MSE)

Reports results of a survey of 50 accredited physician assistant programs regarding their substance use/abuse education: curricula, legal and ethical perspectives, and teaching methodologies. Traditional teaching methods, general biomedical concepts, and treatment modes and outcomes are emphasized, while developing students' multicultural…

A survey of 1,775 Ohio health care providers in 5 disciplines concerning the demand for professional continuing education is reported. Results indicate that program content, date, time, and location are the most important factors influencing program attendance. Specific comparisons are made between optometry and other health care professions. (MSE)

Major influences on career choice among 153 allied health students were need to help others, prestige, autonomy, and advancement and income potential. Risk of malpractice suits and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome were negative influences for medical laboratory majors, but not for dietetics and physical therapy majors. (SK)

This analysis of the female/male wage gap in diverse countries looks at pay scales/job rates, average wage/salary rates, and average earnings in medical, public service, banking, and finance occupations. Explanations for differences and discussion of methodological issues are offered. (SK)

Discusses how the New England College of Optometry has expanded clinical education so graduates are equipped to handle new and advanced clinical and patient-care responsibilities and meet the changing standards of professional entry-level competency. The reform process, third- and fourth-year curriculum components, rotations, and plans for…

In 1972, the Houston (Texas) Independent School District and the Baylor College of Medicine embarked on a partnership (the High School for Health Professionals) designed to prepare students, especially underrepresented minorities, to pursue careers in medicine and other health professions. Success has inspired subsequent BCM partnerships. (MLH)

To restore the humanism in medical care, medical education must espouse the creation of physician-healers. Personal development and well-being of the healer are neglected factors in healing care. Goals and objectives for medical education for promoting trainees' self-awareness, personal growth, and well-being are outlined, and ways to achieve and…

A survey of 575 family-medicine patients in academic and community settings found most willing to have a medical student involved in their health care. One-third reported that students did at least part of the physical examination. Many patients said they would appreciate a medical student's attention. Almost half perceived that student…

A survey of 22 dental-hygiene-program directors found that programs routinely and effectively assess student outcomes and use the information for program improvements and to demonstrate accountability. Both policy and faculty/administrative support were deemed important to implementation. Time constraints were a major barrier. Outcomes-assessment…

A survey of 298 family-practice residency program directors found an increase in the amount of residency curricular time devoted to training on domestic violence. On average, programs provide four to five hours of training a year, mostly through didactic lectures. (Author/MSE)

East Tennessee State University has reshaped its education of medical, nursing, and allied health students to create a rural primary-care track curriculum that meets the needs of two medically underserved rural counties. The community-based experiential program shows students the realities of community public health and provides much-needed…

Analysis of questionnaires and interviews with Tanzanian health and education professionals found that 41% reported having received training in speech and language difficulties but that 68% considered themselves responsible for assisting children with such problems. No evidence of research or planning for these children was found. A copy of the…

Describes development and design of the Comprehensive Clinical Performance Grid for Student Evaluation, created to address concerns about what constitutes a competent practitioner and to provide a useful and consistent student-evaluation tool for clinical optometric education. Development challenges are also discussed, including staff training and…