Training in epidemiology for medical assistants in developing countries

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Medical Education
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The role of Medical Assistants (MAs) in developing countries, particularly in East Africa, was examined.
• The importance of epidemiological training for MAs in these regions was highlighted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate training objectives and materials in epidemiology for MA students in East Africa.
• To assess the acceptability and appropriateness of these materials for both students and educators.

Main Methods:

• A review of the MA role in developing countries was conducted.
• Training objectives in epidemiology were defined for MAs.
• A project was implemented to develop, field-test, and evaluate specific training materials based on these objectives.

Main Results:

• The developed epidemiology training materials were generally found to be acceptable and appropriate.
• Both MA students and teachers perceived the materials positively.

Conclusions:

• The developed training materials show promise for improving epidemiological knowledge among MAs in East Africa.
• Long-term evaluation is recommended to confirm the sustained impact of this training approach.