Medical education in Laos. (3rd August 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wittick, Timothy Alan; Bouphavanh, Ketsomsouk; Namvongsa, Vannyda; Khounthep, Amphay; Gray, Amy
• Is Part Of: Medical teacher. Volume 41:Number 8(2019)
• Page Start: 877
• Page End: 882
• Publication Date: 2019-08-03
• Subjects: Medical education -- Periodicals; 610.711
• DOI: 10.1080/0142159X.2018.1552780
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0142-159X

Abstract

Abstract: Medical education in Laos has undergone significant developments over the last century. A transition from a foreign to locally trained medical workforce has taken place, with international partners having an ongoing presence. Undergraduate and postgraduate medical education in Laos is now delivered by a single, government administered university. The transition to locally based training has had many flow-on benefits, including the retention of Lao doctors in the country and having graduates who are familiar with the local health system. A number of challenges do however exist. Medical resources in the Lao language are limited, teacher numbers and capacity are lacking and complex factors have led to a lack of uniformity in graduate competencies. Despite these challenges, the situation for medical education in Laos is a story of great optimism. Local staff has recognized the need for simple yet innovative solutions and processes are in place for the establishment of a licensing system for medical doctors and reforming existing curricula. Sustained, long-term relationships with partner organizations along with constructive use of technology are likely to be important factors affecting the future direction of medical education in Laos.