Education in ear and hearing care in remote or resource-constrained environments

Otolaryngology education and training in the COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 digital era: a developing world perspective

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviews the literature on the challenges to Otolaryngology training in the developing world, the solutions that have been implemented thus far and the role of technology in first the Digital, and now the Covid era.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is an increasing prevalence of Otolaryngological pathology in the developing world. Efforts to treat this are hampered by multiple factors including appropriate medical training. A number of solutions have been implemented for this both in terms of face-to-face as well as virtual training.

SUMMARY

The Covid era has created new challenges for Otolaryngology training in the developed world, sparking a huge shift in the delivery of education. Traditional forms of training have disadvantaged colleagues in the developing world and so this change in training modalities may benefit the developing world.

A comprehensive review of otorhinolaryngological global health concerns

Background

ENT disease prevalence, risk factors and treatment vary between developed and developing countries. Health provision, particularly disease prevention strategies and surgery, in developing countries is poor, manifesting as a high frequency of common and preventable diseases. Healthcare systems in developing countries are unsustainable, and the technological advances that provide ENT surgery with novel diagnostic and treatment opportunities are inaccessible.

Conclusion

A multifaceted approach is essential to improve the care of patients with ENT diseases in developing countries. Public health efforts must focus on educating the local community, reducing high-risk behaviours and decreasing the frequency of preventable diseases. Governments must be pressured to prioritise the funding of long-term, sustainable efforts with effective disease prevention strategies. Providing local healthcare professionals with high-quality ENT training so that self-sustaining and low-cost care can be delivered, mainly in a primary care setting, is key.