KEYWORDS Curriculum development, problem-based learning, community oriented medical education, change management, faculty training.
BackgroundThe medical curriculum in Pakistan includes the following courses: anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. These courses are offered in the first two years using lectures, tutorials and laboratory work. In the last three years, pathology, pharmacology, forensics and community medicine courses are taught by using clerkships in medicine, surgery, pediatrics, gynecology, obstetrics, and associated health-related disciplines. The general objective of the undergraduate medical curriculum as specified by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) is to provide compassionate, general practice, community-oriented doctors who are committed to manage common health problems of the people in a scientifically sound and cost-effective manner while using appropriate technology and a holistic approach. It also states that the doctor should be able to assume leadership in a health care team, function and communicate effectively as a manager in accordance with the code of medical ethics prescribed by the PMDC.