Master of Medicine in Microbiological Pathology

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to learner specialists capable of competent practice as a Clinical Pathologist in either the public or private sector. The objective is to produce a learner with both academic and clinical skills necessary for independent specialist practice. Additional purposes include an understanding of research methodology and the literature, and an ability to answer questions to research and to pass on the knowledge, skills and attitudes of the discipline to future generations of doctors.

Rationale

This qualification trains medical doctors to become specialists in Clinical Pathology. Learners follow the relevant CMSA curriculum and undergo training in a training unit accredited by the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

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 Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, NQF Level 8.

And

• Registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a medical practitioner.

This qualification comprises compulsory modules at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

> MMed Medical Microbiology Part 1D, 60 Credits.

> MMed Medical Microbiology Part 2, 60 Credits.

> MMed Medical Microbiology Part 3, 60 Credits - Minor dissertation.

• Identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking.
• Use science and technology appropriately.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Work as team members.
• Organise and manage their activities responsibly and effectively.
• Collect, analyse and critically evaluate information.
• Show sensitivity to the patient and community.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will assess the Exit Level Outcomes in an integrated manner.

1. Understand the principles, practice and research applications

• Microbial structure, physiology and genetics, microbial taxonomy, classification and typing methods, host defence mechanisms, the immune system and immunity to infection, microbial pathogenicity, epidemiology of infectious diseases - their surveillance and control, antimicrobial agents, their mode of action and mechanisms of microbial resistance.
• Laboratory safety.
• Sterilisation and Disinfection.
• Handling of the specimen.
• Microscopy.
• Culture and identification methods for micro-organisms.
• Antimicrobial investigations.
• Relevant molecular and emerging technologies.
• Data handling.
• Liaison with clinical colleagues.
• Vaccination and immunisation.
• Infection control in the hospital and community.
• Basic diagnostic virology methodology and interpretation of virological results.
• Quality control and quality assurance.
• Audit.
• Accreditation.
• Important aspects of laboratory management.

Integrated Assessment

Learners write the College of Medicine examinations Parts 1 and 2, for which they receive credit towards the MMed. They then produce a dissertation before qualifying with the MMed. All examinations are externally examined. (a) Part 1 examinations can be taken after two years of training. It will take the form of theory or written exams (modified essay questions and multiple choice) and practical exams (clinical and OSCE including computer-based exams. (of OSCE, clinical, oral, written and computer-based examinations. Both theory and practical exams need to be passed with a minimum of 50%. Coursework will account for 50% of the final mark for Part 1. (b) The Part 2 examination can be taken after a minimum of three years of training. Learners may not apply for the Part 2 examination unless they have satisfactorily completed their portfolio over three years. (c) Each module will be assessed separately, by means of assignment and/or examinations. Each module needs to be passed with a minimum of 50 %.(d) All registrars are required to complete a research dissertation which complies with the requirements for the Part 3 Mimed dissertation.

Research that involves human participants or animal use for research or teaching must undergo ethics review, according to faculty-specific guidelines. Review generally entails prior approval of a research proposal by a Research Ethics or Animal Ethics Committee. In cases where prior approval is not appropriate, the research proposal has appropriate deliberative procedures, according to faculty-specific guidelines. Research papers or dissertations that involve human participants or animal use may not be submitted for examination if they have not undergone any ethics review process.

The University has a system of external peer review and evaluation of each course. One of the aspects of the system is an evaluation of the standards and assessment practices of the department. The academic staff of the University uses this in a manner which is consistent with the quality assurance system of the University.