A synthesis of nine major reports on physicians' competencies for the emerging practice environment.

Medical education and training programs generally have been slow to introduce curriculum content that reflects important changes in practice organization and health services delivery. However, impetus for curricular reform is gaining momentum as national organizations endorse new content for both medical school and residency education. The authors and colleagues at Tufts Managed Care Institute reviewed nine reports by key national organizations to assess their positions on curricular reform in light of changes in practice and the system of care.

Targeting medical students to promote women in surgery.

The under-representation of women in surgical subspecialities is a well-aired topic. Most efforts to redress the surgical gender balance have, to date, been directed at opportunities for women in surgical training. We report on a one-day symposium organized by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh to promote interest in taking up a surgical career, aimed at senior women medical students and newly qualified doctors.