Master of Medicine in Anaesthesiology

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to obtain registration with the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a specialist clinician in the field of Anaesthesia.

The qualification aims to provide South Africa with specialist physicians in the field of anaesthesia in order to provide and promote health care of the highest standard and the continual development of a high level of knowledge and expertise that is comparable with the internationally set standards in that field.

Graduates will have comprehensive, in-depth knowledge, highly specialised technical (including diagnostic and therapeutic) skills and well-developed research skills in the field of Anaesthesia. An attitude of lifelong learning will be fostered, ensuring continuing self-development and development of the field.

Society will gain specialist clinicians in the field of anaesthesia, leading to higher efficacy of patient care.

Rationale

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution conducts RPL in terms of the policy and guidelines of the institution to recognise other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. In cases where learners do not comply with the formal admission requirements, the institution applies its RPL policy.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Medine and Bachelor of Surgery, NQF Level 8.
• Register with Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

• Obtain and assimilate scientific knowledge and associated practical experience appropriate to the discipline, to be applied critically in patient assessment and management.
• Obtain professional and technical skills required to competently assess and manage patients.
• Maintain continued competence and show continuous interest in new developments in the specialist field as a lifelong learner.
• Act professionally and ethically.
• Undertake and complete a relevant research study.

Critical cross-field outcomes

• Confident and flexible identification and definition of complex problems in a highly specific context and the application of appropriate knowledge and skills to their solution are demonstrated. In the process existing knowledge is expanded or redefined.
• The specialist works effectively as a member of the multi-disciplinary health care team towards defined outcomes, and where appropriate assumes leadership, applies negotiation and conflict resolution skills and motivates others.
• The specialist communicates effectively with the patient, the patient's family/guardian, various members of the health care team.
• Effective interaction within learning or professional group takes place with competent engagement in the debate, in a professional manner and context.

• Demonstrate appropriate theoretical knowledge.
• Take an appropriate clinical history.
• Perform appropriate clinical examination.
• Perform/prescribe appropriate specialised investigations and interpret results.
• Arrive at clinical diagnosis, where possible.
• Formulate and implement an appropriate therapeutic regimen, evaluating and adjusting elements of the plan as necessary.
• Latest techniques and technology are assimilated into appropriate practice.
• Takes responsibility within own levels of competence.
• Acts within accepted norms of the profession.
• An acceptable protocol is compiled.
• Results are reported according to scientific norms.

Integrated Assessment

Portfolios.

Simulations.

Work-place assessments.

Written examinations.

Oral examinations.

Other

Portfolio assessment

An appropriate research project is designed and performed.

Summative

Examinations (written practical and oral) in basic medical science subjects, therapeutics and the pathological basis of the practice of medicine takes place at defined points during the study period. The principles and practice of Internal Medicine is examined by means of written and oral examinations and practical evaluation of clinical skills during a number of clinical examinations. (Demonstration of clinical skills and diagnostic capabilities on real patients).

Formative

The learner works under the direct supervision and direction of senior clinical personnel throughout the study period who continually assess and monitor the learner's performance and provide feedback.