Educational training in endoscopy.

An educational training need has developed as a result of the recent rapidly increasing acquisition of endoscopes. This acquisition has been occurring at a rate faster than training programs can acquaint physicians with their use. A Veterans Administration (VA) feasibility study has determined that color television-endoscopy can provide the type of instructional materials that could be used to assist a larger number of physicians in acquiring skills in endoscopy. Since the budget requirements for television-endoscopy are substantial, it seemed expedient for the VA to establish a Center for Endoscopic Programs (VACEP). The purpose of this Center is to prepare instructional materials that will enhance educational training in endoscopy. We believe that the provision of self-instructional and teaching supplement types of audiovisual materials are essential to the accomplishment of VACEP's educational objectives. Our society today is video oriented, and we believe very strongly in the value of the television medium as an educational adjunct in teaching endoscopy.