Building Surgical Research Capacity in Africa: The Ptolemy Project
Author Information
Author(s): Derbew Miliard, Beveridge Massey, Howard Andrew, Byrne Niall
Primary Institution: University of Toronto
Hypothesis
The Ptolemy Project aims to improve access to medical literature for surgeons in developing countries.
Conclusion
The Ptolemy Project provides essential electronic access to medical literature, helping East African surgeons address regional health problems.
Supporting Evidence
- The project started in 2001 and has provided access to 201 doctors.
- Surgeons in East Africa face significant barriers to accessing medical literature.
- Participants reported high satisfaction with the Ptolemy service.
Takeaway
The Ptolemy Project helps doctors in East Africa find important medical information online, which can make them better at their jobs.
Methodology
The project provides East African surgeons with electronic access to medical literature and includes training on its use.
Potential Biases
Potential barriers include limited web access, complexity of the web, and a lack of perceived need to access literature.
Limitations
Only 30 out of 167 registered participants used the service during the study period, indicating barriers to access.
Participant Demographics
Participants are primarily surgeons from East Africa, particularly those associated with COSECSA.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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