Training surgically competent doctors for South African rural settings.

The training of surgically competent doctors for South African rural settings is governed by several factors and determinants which include population demographics, distribution of doctors, infrastructural development and socio-economic conditions of the communities. Demands will be influenced by the disease profile, available facilities and academic support. Training options will include community-oriented/based (undergraduate) curriculum and restructured internship training period and acquisition of skills. Postgraduate diplomas and fellowships and continuing medical education and academic support will form an integral part of the training.