What non-animal alternatives are available?
Excellent validated and widely adopted alternatives are available for teaching all aspects of medical education previously taught using animals. High fidelity, lifelike, and programmable human simulators are now a mainstay of medical education at many U.S. medical schools. Computer-based learning such as interactive basic science and clinical programs, including virtual reality applications, are used to teach everything from basic anatomy and physiology to complex laparoscopic surgery techniques. Didactic teaching methods, class and small-group case discussions, standardized patient exams, observed surgeries, faculty-mentored hands-on training, and many other progressive educational methods have all replaced the use of animals.
