Venereology Department
Education in venereology is vitally important for its development. Its lack of formal recognition and the lack of university chairs in the field have made it a neglected medical specialty. In order to remedy this, we call for a university chair in venereology in Bombay. This will be a stepping-stone to the recognition of venereology as a medical specialty in the United Kingdom. The future of venereology in the UK depends on curricular reform.
Education in venereology is indispensable
Education in venereology is a must. The medical profession, as a whole, has a serious shortage of professionals in this field. There is a lack of young doctors, clinicians and teachers. A medical specialization in venereology would not only enable professionals to advance in this field but also train a new generation of medicos. In addition, recognition of the subject would provide an ultimate means of controlling V.D. in the country. For thirty years, this policy has not produced any worthwhile results. Moreover, the lack of education in venereology in the medical specialties has resulted in criminal waste of national human resources.
Despite its high impact on public health and medical services, little attention has been given to venereology by medical colleges and hospitals. This is a serious drawback because venereal diseases have failed to gain general awareness and respect. Sadly, education in venereology is scarce and underfunded. Many students are not trained to properly diagnose or treat venereal diseases and thus, their patients suffer. However, the time spent studying venereology can pay off in the long run.
Need for a university chair in venereology in Bombay
While venereology is closely related to dermatology, there is a huge demand for medical services in this field. During a visit to Bombay, British venereologist Dr. C. S. Nicol expressed his displeasure at the current system in India, calling for the establishment of an institute of venereology in every state. Despite his strong words, these efforts failed to make an impact on the inert minds of medical educationalists and health authorities.
A university chair in venereology in Bombai is essential for enhancing the quality of care for venereal disease patients. With the guidance and inspiration of a venereologist, the practice of venereology is sure to be improved. Besides, the emphasis on scientific diagnosis, proper treatment, and efforts to control V.D will improve patient care. Further, this new chair will help in tracing potentially infected contacts, reducing the morbidity rate.
Lack of recognition of venereology as a medical specialty
Despite the fact that venereology has a long history and is closely related to dermatology, its underrecognition is not uncommon. In 1971, a renowned British venereologist, Dr. C.S. Nicol, visited India and expressed his displeasure at the prevailing system of medical specialization. He recommended that India maintain venereology as a separate subject and establish medical institutes in each state to improve access to the specialty. However, his urging did not have the desired effect on the idle minds of the health authorities and medical educationalists.
In addition to the lack of medical specialty recognition, venereology is deeply linked to public health and other branches of medicine. Although venereal diseases are rarely included in interdisciplinary seminars and public health programmes, they are crucially related to the prevention and treatment of V.D., a major goal of the specialty. A special study department dedicated to venereal diseases should include special studies in prevention, epidemiology, and social factors.
Need for a curricular
The Need for a Curricular in Venereology is a critical topic in medical education. Although many schools offer specialized training in this area, many students do not receive the education and clinical experience necessary to become competent practitioners in this specialty. To help improve the quality of medical education, the Court of the Society has instituted a diploma course in venereology. The Diploma in venereology will include topics in sexually transmitted diseases and infections. Trainees may also be eligible to complete an accredited specialty logbook.
There are many reasons for the Need for a Curriculum in Venereology. The first of these is to promote high standards of care for patients. It establishes the fundamental requirements for consultant and specialist training in this field. In addition, a Curriculum will ensure that trainees are adequately trained for their specialties and will be able to practice at the highest level of quality. It also promotes collaboration among training centres.