[The training of specialists. The case of nephrologists]

Specialists must be trained in properly certified university centers. There are established applicant selection programs and mechanisms and faculties maintain a favorable learning environment. The careful selection of teachers must be based in their personal attributes, their interest and dedication to academic work and their real concern about ethical issues. The center's technological equipment, as a means to favor the action of future specialists, is considered important. Several critical aspects of the training centers that, at the present time threaten post graduate training, are mentioned. The teaching activities of scientific societies and private and public health organisms should concentrate around training centers to reinforce their academic work, favoring their scientific and practicing activities. The interests of faculties and Ministry of Health medical centers should be made compatible for their own benefit. Medical specialties are closely interrelated. Therefore, the boundaries of nephrology should be established to define a training program. A common environment for pediatric and adult nephrology should be created, training centers should be accredited and specialists should be certified using common criteria. Our country has a deficit of nephrologists and scientific societies should encourage cooperative actions between the different training centers.