Master of Philosophy in Maternal and Fetal Medicine

Purpose

The purpose of these qualification is to provide subspecialty training in the theory and practice of Maternal and Fetal Medicine to specialist obstetrician gynaecologists. An additional purpose is to provide the healthcare sector with an appropriate number of professionals with advanced training in maternal and fetal medicine.

Rationale

The programme aims to allow certification according to the requirements of the The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a registered subspecialist.

Entry Requirements

A candidate shall not be admitted to the programme, unless he/she (a) submits 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; (b) has been registered as a specialist in that field; and (c) has been appointed against a Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)-approved training number.

This qualification comprises two focus areas namely

• Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Maternal and Fetal Medicine Part 1 (OBS7013W) Level 9, 120 Credits.
• MPhil in Maternal and Fetal Medicine Part 2 (OBS7014W) Level 9, 60 Credits.

Graduates will have

1. Ability to identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking. Ability to use science and technology appropriately.
2. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Ability to work as team ember. Ability to demonstrate empathy and sensitivity to the individual and community, acknowledging cultural and religious differences.
3. Ability to organise and manage one's activities responsively and effectively. Ability to collect, analyse and critically evaluate information.
4. A sound knowledge of the physiology and pathology of the pregnant woman and the fetus. Clinical competency in the investigation and management of medical and surgical orders of both mother and fetus.
5. Clinical expertise in complicated obstetrics including maternal resuscitation and intensive care, fatal medicine, infectious diseases in pregnancy and medical and surgical complications of pregnancy.
6. Specific technical skills such as the use of advanced ultrasound are required. Expertise in operative procedures and intrapartum management is required.
7. Knowledge and understanding of preandpost-pregnancy counselling and bereavement counselling. Knowledge of relevant aspects of related specialities and laboratory disciplines which include neonatal medicine, anaesthesia and intensive care.
8. Experience and knowledge of administration, management and the organisation of a clinical service.
9. An understanding of epidemiology, statistics and research methodology and audit.
10. The ability to manage data obtained during research.
11. The completion of an appropriate research project related to this discipline.

Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome

• Demonstrate required knowledge and procedural skills as per the curriculum of the relevant College of Medicine.
• Demonstrate required knowledge and procedural skills as per the curriculum of the relevant College of Medicine.

> In the case of candidates who opt also to complete a dissertation.

• Demonstrate advanced scholarship or research in the subspecialty field.

Integrated Assessment

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.