The need for assistance by clinical librarians is most felt by medical groups involved in evidence-based medical practice (EBM) and is often a prerequisite in the planning of educational services of training hospitals affiliated to universities. The discussion about the “new” position of a “medical informationist” underlines the fact that there is a need for specialized information services provided by the medical library.
By the time the conference will be held, we can report about the actual programme, the progress made by the first group of students and the experiences "on the job" or "as a trainee".
The postgraduate training is expected to start in january 2004 (provided there will be enough students, of course).
An assessment will have a prominent role in the admission procedure; when and if the student can give proof of sufficient knowledge, skills and experience, this can be honoured with a walk-over for that specific exam. The theoretical parts of the training will take place one day a fortnight, but the students are expected to spend at least a full day/week for study and tasks. Small research projects, hands-on training and supervised in-the-job practical experience will be part of the education, but could take place in the student’s own working place.
The whole programme will be critically monitored and evaluated. |