Master of Physiotherapy in Orthopaedic Manual Therapy

The purpose of this qualification is to obtain registration with the Health Professional Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a master clinician in the specialist field of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy.

The qualification aims to provide South Africa with master clinicians in the field of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy in order to promote the continual development of a high level of knowledge and expertise that is internationally comparable in the field.

Learners will have comprehensive, in-depth knowledge, highly specialised technical skill which includes diagnostic and therapeutic skills, as well as well-developed research skills in the field of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy. Learners will maintain an attitude of lifelong learning ensuring continuing self-development and development of the field.

Society will gain master clinicians in the field of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy leading to higher efficacy of care and rehabilitation of such learners.

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 Science Honours in Physiotherapy, Level 8.

Or

• Postgraduate Diploma in Physiotherapy, Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Physiotherapy, Level 8, 480 Credits.

1. Confident and flexible identification of complex problems in a specialised context at different levels of health care. In the process the application of appropriate knowledge and skills to their solution is demonstrated, expanded or redefined.
2. Learners must be able to evaluate a learner's/community's health problem in the context of his/her /it's socio-economic environment and suggest and implement a treatment plan to his/her/it's problem.
3. The master clinician works effectively and confidently 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.
4. The master clinician communicates effectively with the learner, his/her family/guardian, various members of the health care team and relevant members of the community.
5. Effective interaction within a learning or professional group takes place with effective engagement in debate in a professional manner and context.
6. Assist the learner/community in managing the rehabilitation process.
7. Undertake and participate in health education to the public and special groups.
8. Reflect on and explore a variety of strategies to learn more effectively.
9. Participate as responsible citizens in the life of local and national communities.
10. Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts.
11. Explore education and career opportunities.
12. Initiate/supervise health care services in the field of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy.
13. Create entrepreneurial opportunities in the field of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy.
14. Act as role model as master clinician in the field of Orthopaedic Manual Therapy.

• Demonstrate appropriate theoretical knowledge.
• Take appropriate clinical history.
• Perform appropriate clinical examination.
• Perform/prescribe appropriate specialised 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.
• Demonstrate an appropriate holistic approach to learner care.
• Latest techniques and technology are assimilated into appropriate practice.
• Takes responsibility within own limits of competence.
• Acts within accepted norms of the profession.
• Demonstrate the planning and execution of an appropriate research project.
• Report research results according to scientific norms.

Integrated Assessment

Portfolios.

Simulations.

Work-place assessments.

Written examinations.

Oral examinations.

Other

Assessment is continuous and performed as follows

Portfolio assessment.

Projects based on specific topics or case studies are presented.

Continuous and Formative assessment

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

Summative assessment

Pre-determined written examinations are set at predetermined regular intervals during the study. Oral and/or practical examinations are conducted during predetermined times during the study, which ensures comprehensive and thorough evaluation of the application of theoretical knowledge, acquired experience and clinical and/or practical skills of the learner. Learners must complete a dissertation successfully.