Better education for better health care.

ABSTRACT

PIP In India, all national nutrition programs and activities are carried out by staff at the primary health centers under the leadership of medical officers. A study of 114 of these officers from 80 primary health centers in rural districts of Andhra Pradesh State was undertaken to assess their knowledge and performance, particularly with regard to nutrition and related matters. Scores were expressed in percentages, with under 50% considered poor, 50-75% satisfactory, and over 75% good. The highest score 67.7% was obtained on knowledge of nutrition and related areas, and the lowest, 19.7% was for the participant's awareness of their own job responsibilities. Although overall theoretical knowledge on nutrition and related matters was satisfactory, significant gaps existed. A majority were ignorant as to how many people were covered by their centers and the numbers of staff in different categories, suggesting little attention was being given to planning and implementation of various services. Only 23% were aware of their own responsibilities regarding nutrition, and only 16% mentioned teaching nutrition during their training programs. The conclusion is that the medical education system must be better coordinated with the health care delivery infrastructure. Medical undergraduates need more exposure to Practical aspects of health care in rural communities, managerial aspects of work in primary health centers, and programs with a stronger nutrition component. In addition, refresher courses must be offered, and the problem of overburdening the medical officers must be dealt with.^ieng