Master of Medicine in Ophthalmology

1. To obtain registration with the HPCSA as a specialist surgeon in the speciality field of Ophthalmology.
2. The purpose of this qualification is to provide South Africa with specialist's clinicians in the field of Ophthalmology in order to promote the continual development of a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field.
3. Graduates will have comprehensive in-depth knowledge, highly specialised technical, (including diagnostic and therapeutic skills) skills and well-developed research skills in the field of Ophthalmology. They will maintain an attitude of lifelong learning ensuring continuing self-development of the field.
4. Society will gain specialist's clinicians in the field of Ophthalmology leading to higher efficacy of care in-patients.

Matriculation certificate

First degree: M B Ch B or equivalent

Other

1. Completion of recognised internship as prescribed by the HPCSA.
2. Compliance with all the regulations as specified by the HPCSA for registration as a registrar.
3. Foreign graduates must comply with the regulations as prescribed by the HPCSA.
4. Candidates are appointed on the basis of availability's of HPCSA approved posts and on merit.

Master of Medicine (Ophthalmology)

Learning outcomes

Obtain and assimilate scientific knowledge and associated practical experience appropriate to the discipline, to be applied critically in patient assessment and management and in a community setting.

Obtain professional and technical skills required to competently assess and manage patients.

Maintain continued competence and show a 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 specialised context and the application of appropriate knowledge and skills to their solution is 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 and relevant members of the community.

Effective interaction within a learning or professional group takes place with competent engagement in debate, in a professional manner and context

Demonstrate appropriate theoretical knowledge.

Take appropriate clinical history.

Perform appropriate clinical examination.

Perform/prescribe appropriate specialized investigations and interpret results.

Arrive at a 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 limits 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

Assessment is continuous and done on the following basis

Portfolio assessment

Seminars based on current research are presented.

A basic research project is conducted.

Formative assessment

The candidate works and studies under the constant and close supervision of senior clinical personnel, who assess/monitor and comment on the candidate's performance, such comment being directed at the student and the supervisor.

Summative assessment

The portfolio word that has been compiled is assessed by the assessor(s) and moderator(s).

One or more written examinations are set at predetermined intervals and especially at or close to the conclusion of the prescribed study period. One or more oral and/or practical examinations may similarly be set. These written, oral and practical examinations are set to a high standard and are conducted in a manner which ensures comprehensive and thorough evaluation of the theoretical knowledge, acquired experience and clinical/practical skills of the candidate.