For example, when it comes to the study of anatomy, it’s hard to beat computer software for sheer usefulness and versatility. In the past, students had to observe cadavers firsthand in order to gain a thorough understanding of the complex inner workings of the human body. Now, however, thanks to increasingly sophisticated anatomical software programs that mimic the human body perfectly, students can study on a computer what they could once only see in a lab. Of course, nothing will ever fully replace the human body itself as the ultimate primer in anatomy, but access to such software offers an excellent way for physicians in training to reinforce what they have learned, as well as to view a variety of different physiques.

Another common application for medical software is the simulator. Like anatomy programs, simulators offer physicians and students alike an opportunity to educate themselves on the body and the effects that disease or injury can have on it without actually operating on a patient. Simulators can also be used to teach students how to perform certain essential surgical procedures in a hands-on fashion without the added stress of actually having a patient’s life on the line. These programs help create better, more confident doctors with the skills and knowledge necessary to save lives. The importance of these and other common types of educational computer programs can hardly be overstated. Without them, the world of medical education would be a very different place.