Master of Medicine in Obstetrics and Gynaecology

The aim of this programme is to produce a competent, critical, skilled obstetrician gynaecologist, capable of practicing independently in both public and private service. A minority of the graduates would wish to pursue an academic career with particular emphasis on research.

This qualification forms part of the credentialing process for medical practitioners, as specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) stipulates training requirements, including a minimum period of experiential learning (4 years). The examination may be taken and passed prior to the completion of the required period of supervised learning and practical training specified by the HPCSA. The programme is designed to follow the recommendations of the College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (SA) with regard to necessary training-both practical and theoretical in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. The aim of this qualification is to meet the needs for formal examination certification, as well as to set standards, nationally, for such a qualification (equivalent qualifications may be offered by the Country's 8 medical schools). A student who obtains this qualification will be competent to practice independently as a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. He/she will have the necessary knowledge and skills to identify problems, assess, and manage patients in Obstetrics or Gynaecology (O & G). He/she will have particular knowledge of the problems within the South African health-case environment.

This programme will further provide qualifiers with the necessary foundation to conduct and present an independent research project.

Finally, this programme will help supply South Africa with sufficient well-trained obstetrician gynaecologists to serve the community and to contribute to academic and scholarly activity in this field.

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 Requirement

The minimum requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, NQF Leve 8.

Or

• Equivalent acceptable to the Health Professions Council of South Africa Current registration as a medical practitioner.

1. A good knowledge in the basic sciences particularly of those aspects applicable to obstetrics and gynaecology (O & G).
2. The graduate should be able to identify and manage complicated and uncomplicated obstetric patients. (Feto-maternal medicine).
3. The graduate should be able to deal with gynaecological disease and to promote health and well-being.
4. The graduate should develop appropriate clinical and practical skills for the practice of O & G.
5. Student should have the opportunity to develop skills in research.

a)

1. Ability to identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking.
2. Ability to use science and technology appropriately.
3. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
4. Ability to work as a team member.
5. Ability to demonstrate empathy and sensitivity to the individual and community, acknowledging cultural and religious differences.
6. Ability to organise and manage one's activities responsibly and effectively.
7. Ability to collect, analyse and critically evaluate information.
8. Ability to demonstrate sensitivity to the individual and the community.

b)

1. Ability to identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking.
2. Ability to use science and technology appropriately.
3. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
4. Ability to work as a team member.
5. Ability to demonstrate empathy and sensitivity to the individual and community, acknowledging cultural and religious differences.
6. Ability to organise and manage one's activities responsibly and effectively.
7. Ability to collect, analyse and critically evaluate information.
8. Ability to demonstrate sensitivity to the individual and the community.

c)

1. Have an understanding of the basic sciences of anatomy, biochemistry, cell biology, embryology, endocrinology, genetics, immunology, microbiology, pathology, physiology and elementary statistics. Emphasis should be placed on those aspects applicable to O & G. Student should be able to apply the basic sciences to the practical discipline of O & G.
2. Ability to diagnose pregnancy and deal with problems of early pregnancy:

• Ability to recognise obstetric risk factors and be able to institute appropriate measures of care.
• Ability to deal with complications in obstetrics and understand the management and long-term implications.
• Understanding of audit of obstetrics and design of clinical programs.

3. Ability to understand and institute screening

• Diagnosis and recognition of gynaecological problems.
• Understanding of the sub-specialities of gynaecological oncology, reproductive medicine and urogynaecology.
• Ability to provide contraceptive services.

4. Competence in surgery and practical procedures in both O & G

• Recognition and management of complications.
• Be able to institute audit in obstetric and gynaecological practice.
• Be able to assess and practice evidence-based medicine.

5. Two commentaries (short dissertations) are required prior to the final examination

• Learners should be able to develop a research protocol.
• Learners should have understanding of basic statistical analysis of results.
• It is recognised that the development of research and the desire for an academic career will be limited to a small percentage of the graduates from this programme.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment to ensure that purpose of the degree is achieved.

Certification by the Head of Department that at least 3 years of learning at registrar level will have taken place in an approved training post before the clinical examination is written. (Further minimum of 1 year required by HPCSA).

Part I examination-comprising basic sciences must be passed but may be taken prior to commencing training program. Reciprocity with College of Medicine examination.

Two short dissertations-one in obstetrics and one in gynaecology, one of which must be original research, to be presented and a satisfactory standard achieved prior to admission to the Part II examination.

Part II examination: comprises.

i) Clinical cases.

ii) 2 written papers each of 3 hours (obstetrics and gynaecology).

iii) An OSCE.

iv) A 30-40 minute oral examination in obstetrics and gynaecology. (These may all be combined into a long OSCE).

A satisfactory record of clinical experience must be presented and certified by the candidates' supervisors prior to admission to the Part II examination.

Submission of a dissertation on the results of original research in either obstetrics or gynaecology. This may include an audit of clinical practice.