The study of age and sex structure, length of service and proficiency of clinical oncologists showed oncologic dispensaries to be largely staffed with well-trained physicians. However, the following problems still existing in the rural oncologic service were identified: no oncologic offices in a third of rural areas, many vacancies of district oncologists are still unoccupied, oncologic care is often given by specialists other than oncologists and finally, postgraduate training standards do not meet the requirements of present-day oncology.