Objectives. INTPPPO was started with the twin objectives of informing pediatricians about the curability of childhood cancer and educating them in practical aspects of pediatric oncology. The details and modus operandi of the programme were published in MPO 2000; 35(3): 189 (abstr). The present study evaluates the progress of the programme, on the basis of available feedback, with the objective of learning lessons for further re®nements. Methods. 16 training workshops for pediatricians, pediatric surgeons and pediatric postgraduates were held in India in the past 3 years (1998±2000). Training at each workshop was held over a period of two days using the 'standard' training module consisting of nine lectures and six interactive practical sessions. To evaluate the workshops, all participants were assessed by a pre-workshop test (Pewt) (15 min. quiz) and a post-workshop MCQ test (Powt) (60 questions). The trainees also replied to a workshop evaluation questionnaire (Weq) intended to obtain their feedback. Aspects of workshop arrangements, training and dif®culties were reported by the workshop co-ordinator and central observer of each workshop.
Results. 430 professionals were trained in the past 3 years: 60% pediatricians, 5% pediatric surgeons, and 35% postgraduates. 60% trainees scored more than 50% marks at Pewt. While 85% trainees obtained more than 75% score at Powt. The faculty members reported enthusiastic participation of trainees in the interactive sessions. 257/430 participants replied to the Weq. 80% of them were from government/teaching hospitals. They attended workshops to update their knowledge; to learn routine workup and approach; to be able to diagnose and refer early; to learn practical tips; to provide help at local level. The workshops were informative to all participants, to highlight and remove misconceptions, and create a positive attitude and effort towards children with cancer. All trainees were willing to participate in 'shared care' management of children with cancer. 16/16 evaluation forms from the central observers and workshop co-ordinators were received. Except at two workshops at Calcutta & Vellore, the standard training module was followed. A reduction of didactic lectures with more interactive sessions, case studies, group discussions, quiz and wardrounds were recommended. Re®nements in the reference manual, training module and teaching methods were suggested. Conclusions. The monitoring and immediate evaluation of each workshop has been meticulous. The objective of informing and educating pediatricians has been achieved at 16 workshops. The knowledge and skills imparted in training at the workshops has provided con®dence to the participants for `shared care' of children with cancer. Steps are required to re®ne the quality of workshops. Methods to assess long term impact on early diagnosis, referral pattern and shared care need to be instituted.