Master of Philosophy in Clinical Haematology

Purpose

The aim of this qualification is to train physicians or haematopathologists with the appropriate clinical knowledge, laboratory skills, applied competence and understanding of disease of the blood and to function at specialist level. Clinical haematologists should play a role at all levels of the health system. Not only will they treat patients with acute haematological disorders at tertiary institutions but also provide care to patients' genetic bleeding disorders, congenital or acquired anaemias as well as to those with chronic haematological malignancies in the community. A clinical haematologist should be able to conduct community-based research. They must have competency in research methodology, statistics and evaluation of data. They are required to have good understanding of the scientific basis of blood disorders, the usual diagnostic techniques, detailed understanding of the clinical management, as well as required regulatory issues.

Rationale

The Master of Philosophy in Clinical Haematology aims to allow certification (according to the requirements of the Health Professions Council of South Africa) as a registered subspecialist in clinical haematology. Graduates will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and specific skills to meet the requirements for specialisation in clinical haematology of the College of Pathologists of South Africa.

Entry Requirements

• Proof that he/she, prior to commencing with education and training in the relevant subspecialty, has complied with all the requirements for registration as a specialist in the primary or one of the primary specialities listed against the relevant subspecialty.
• Has been registered as a specialist in that field.

And

• Has been appointed against an Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)'s-approved training number.

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

Compulsory modules

• Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Clinical Haematology Part 1 (LAB7024W), 120 Credits.
• MPhil Clinical Haematology Part 2 (LAB7041W), 60 Credits.

1. Knowledge and skills in a wide spectrum of laboratory techniques and haematological diseases.
2. Knowledge and practice of clinical haematology, diagnostic evaluations, treatments and management of haematological conditions and emergencies, and bone marrow and peripheral stem cell transplantation.
3. Perform the range of tests used in a haematology laboratory with a high level of technical skill.
4. Competence in quality assurance practices pertaining to haematopathology.
5. Interpret the results of laboratory tests in the diagnosis of anaemia, coagulopathies, thrombophilia, haematological malignancies, haematological problems of systemic disease and therapy-related problems.
6. Recommend appropriate additional investigations relevant to the establishment of a diagnosis as well as management of the blood diseases in question.
7. Competence in clinical and laboratory aspects of blood transfusion.
8. Understanding of molecular biology, immunology, basic scientific measurements and cell biology.
9. Sound knowledge of research methodology.
10. Clinical management of blood diseases.
11. Trained in diagnostic methods of a modern haematology laboratory.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome

• Demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and minimum clinical requirements to register as a subspecialist.

Integrated Assessment

Candidates undergo full-time clinical training by the University while being employed as senior registrars by the provincial health department on the Health Professions Council of South Africa approved University training platform. In the course of their training, and at end, candidates undergo examinations set by the relevant College of Medicine of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa. The curriculum is delivered via recommended reading, development of a detailed portfolio of cases, bedside teaching, teaching rounds, presentations at meetings and journal clubs and practical experience in clinics and wards. The assessment strategy is aimed at assessing whether candidates have mastered the basic sciences and/or other foundational knowledge required for their clinical work, and whether they have met the minimum clinical requirements to register as subspecialists. These requirements are set by the Colleges of Medicine and are usually assessed in the form of a clinical logbook, an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE), objective structured practical examinations (OSPE) and written paper/s.

The examination consists of two parts. The examination in Part I consists of one or more written paper(s) and/or such practical and/or oral examinations as the examiners may require. The examination in Part 2 (for those candidates who wish to obtain the degree) consists of a dissertation.

In order to register as subspecialists the candidate is not required but may opt to complete a dissertation for which external examination is arranged by the University. Subspecialist trainees who opt not to complete the dissertation may register as subspecialists after passing College exams and meeting minimum clinical training time on successful completion of College examinations. They receive the relevant College of Medicine certification. Those candidates who also produce a dissertation receive a University Degree.