Training in medical informatics. The use of computers for diagnostic purposes

Part of a blockcourse on medical informatics is presented; this course is intended for medical students. It is shown how medical students are introduced to the study of the role of computers for diagnostic purposes. The course consists of an oral presentation which introduces the student to the subject, and of practical work on systems in order to more fully comprehend the topics explained in the oral part of the blockcourse. In the oral presentation the student is introduced to various concepts that are used in computer-aided diagnosis. A critical review of the possibilities of computer use for diagnostic purposes is given. A system is presented, with which the student can work interactively. It consists of a database of patients, referred to the hospital because of suspected congenital heart disorder. Bayes' rule and diagnostic tree decision schemes are available to the student to acquaint himself with the subject. The ways he can work with this system are explained. The course is given regularly (every 4 months) to medical students and is well appreciated.