The role of educational videos in gastroenterology.

The potential role for video tape education in gastroenterology is discussed. The need for material to inform patients about their diagnoses is widely acknowledged and educators need to take advantage of modern techniques. Studies in general practice, diabetes care, and asthma care have found that videos have significant benefits when compared with conventional techniques. There are few such video tapes available to gastroenterologists. It has been shown that patients are keen to accept educational material in this form provided it is shown at a suitable time and in a suitable venue.