Field Epidemiology Program
In-service training which follows academic studies is a hallmark of complete and successful medical training. Through these residency and internship programs, a graduate, possessing raw medical knowledge, molds himself into a truly competent and proficient practitioner of his specialty. In this respect, epidemiology does not differ from clinical specialties'. Though, both physicians and other medical graduates play important roles as practicing epidemiologists. The level where epidemiology is practiced differs.
The patient is the community and the hospital is the country. However, the epidemiologist has responsibilities to human life and well being that parallel the bedside physician. On the positive side, his sound judgment and timely investigation and action can erase a widespread source of ill-health. The potential patients will never reach the safety-net of curative medicine. Conversely, a lack ofepidemiologist or mistakes by overworked or under trained epidemiologist, may allow easily correctable problem to continue unabated. Defects in existing control program, without careful epidemiologic assessment, will persist. The patient (the community) will suffer. He will receive inadequate therapy (control measures) and his illness will linger. The Ministry of Health (MOH) recognizes the need for practicing epidemiologist to staff positions in the preventive medicine system.