Recommendations for the implemantation of the new German medical curriculum (27.6.2002) in the subjects Epidemiology, Medical Biometry and Medical Informatics

In the Approbationsordnung für Ärzte (German regulation for the Curriculum in Medicine) of 27th June, 2002 the disciplines Epidemiology, Medical Biometry and Medical Informatics are combined in one obligatory cross-sectional subject of the second part of the medical exam. In addition, it is possible to study topics from these disciplines in more detail on a voluntary basis. The aim of teaching this cross-sectional subject is to qualify the students to assess their own actions critically, to apply recommendations with care, and to learn to use tools like systematic documentation and modern information technology.For the mentioned disciplines a catalogue has been developed which is subdivided in three parts. In the first part methods are described which are needed to support medical decisions. The second part refers to support of medical supply and quality management, whereas the third part deals with the basic elements of Public Health and Health Economics, with respect to causation of diseases and prevention.