[Training in epidemiology at the Institute of Tropical Medicine of the Army Health Service. Experience over 4 years].

The authors described the training in epidemiology received by 185 Army medical doctors attached for instruction to the I.M.T.S.S.A. since 1981. Statistical methodology, basic epidemiology, and applied epidemiology are taught in such way that Army medical doctors are better capable of rationalizing and strengthening their action of prevention in their posting either in France or seconded to developing countries. Description of pedagogical targets is underlined as well as methodology of control and evaluation of progress towards these targets. The authors are also able to appreciate, in terms of the level of capacity of the personnel trained, the severity of the consequences either of a strengthening of the pedagogical targets or of a reduction. When the reform of medical education and training imposes very often such an alternative, the authors point out how the leading opinion of the ones who utilize the services of the personnel should be taken into full consideration prior to any decision.