Master of Medicine in Anatomical Pathology

Purpose

The primary purpose of the qualification is to provide qualified, appropriately trained professionals for South Africa with the specific knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will enable them to register as specialists in Anatomical Pathology with the Medical and Dental Professional Board of the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Future staff for the training of registrars in Anatomical Pathology in the medical schools in Southern Africa. Furthermore, the qualification provides learners with the foundation for continued personal and intellectual growth, gainful economic activity, and for contributing to society at large through advanced patient care, innovation, scholarship, and leadership in the field of Anatomical Pathology.

Rationale

The qualification responds to the critical shortage of medical specialists in the country in rural areas. A higher level of responsiveness to diverse regional and national human resources, skills, and knowledge needs in healthcare provision, in particular for rural areas and the public sector, which is in line with the social accountability focus of the institution. Qualifying learners will be greatly needed for the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) to ensure equitable health care for all. The qualification contributes to enhancing the employability of healthcare professionals and alleviating shortages of expertise in the field of Anatomical Pathology. The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) accredits the qualification, and the qualifying learners will be able to register as specialists in Anatomical Pathology with the Medical and Dental Professional Board of the HPCSA.

Recognition of Prior Learning.

Entry Requirements

• Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery or equivalent, NQF Level 8.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 9 totalling 720 Credits.

• General Pathology, 180 Credits.
• Anatomical Pathology, 360 Credits.
• Mini-Dissertation (Anatomical Pathology), 180 Credits.

1. Diagnose, through laboratory investigations, and interpretation of appropriate specialised diagnostic paraphernalia investigation (example, immunocytochemistry, electron microscopy as immunofluorescence).
2. Formulate and execute management options for divergent problems in surgical pathology laboratory in a holistic manner.
3. Advise and implement appropriate measures in disease management relevant to patient care.
4. Interpret scientific literature relevant to his/her field and through reflection adapt new developments in the field of Anatomical Pathology into his/her clinical practice.
5. Conceptualise, plan and implement, and interpret research relevant to the practice of Anatomical Pathology.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria are assessed in an integrated manner across all Exit Level Outcomes

• Solve common and uncommon patient problems using a variety of specialised technical skills.
• Resolve contextual and/or abstract problems at an individual at an individual and at a community level.
• Present a dissertation on research conducted.
• Participate in teaching seminars.
• Participate in the maintenance of professional competence on a continuous basis.

Integrated Assessment

In order to assess whether learners have grasped complex concepts of the primary subjects within the qualification, formative assessment in the form of oral, portfolio/log book evidence of all procedures undertaken, autopsy examination, OSPE will be utilised including written theory exams as summative assessment. Community service and assist with the heavy diagnostic service load within the Division. This provides vital WIL within the specialisation.