Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health

Purpose

This qualification is designed to equip learners and health professionals with relevant knowledge and skill in health related matters at district and local levels in order to promote and contribute to government's intention to provide better basic services to the communities. This qualification will enable learners to:

• Identify and solve health problems using critical and creative thinking.
• Work effectively with others as a member.
• Organise and manage their professional activities responsibly and effectively.
• Communicate effectively orally and in writing using different types of media.
• Use science and technology effectively in evaluating health information and managing health services.
• Understanding of the principles, theories and practice of primary health care and district health management.

Rationale

The Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Health Care and District Health Management qualification responds to the need identified by the Limpopo Provincial Government in local and district health levels. The health sector is in need of skilled personnel in the deliverance of health services at local government level. This qualification offers training, knowledge and skill to enable individuals in health at local level to function effectively. It is suitable for employees of health who need training and those who need to advance their studies in the Primary Health Care and District Health Services.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The Department Admission Committee will evaluate the learner's experience based on merit of each case. After the evaluation the Committee will make a recommendation to the School Admission Committee. The School Admission Committee may require testimonials and proof of certificates.

RPL is applied for learners who do not have formal academic achievement to gain access to a particular qualification, but with proven expertise and competency will be considered. Candidates may apply for exemption from certain modules.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry to this qualification is an appropriate three (3) year Degree or equivalent.

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

• PBL, Primary Health Care, Health promotion and Health education, 20 Credits.
• Environmental Health and Occupational Health, 20 Credits.
• Common Communicable and non-Communicable Diseases, Sexually Transmitted Infections, HIV and AIDS, 20 Credits.
• National, regional and international health issues, 20 Credits.
• Management of Primary Health Care and District Health services, 20 Credits.
• Introduction to Health Systems Research Methods, 10 Credits.
• Practicum in Basic Counselling Skills, 10 Credits.

1. Identify and solve health problems using critical and creative thinking.
2. Demonstrate ability to work with others in teams.
3. Demonstrate ability to organise and manage their professional activities responsibly and effectively.
4. Demonstrate an informed understanding of the principles, theories and practice of primary health care and district health management.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Problems are solved by means of exploring and critically evaluating abstract, personal situations and work related problems.
• Information on health matters is collected, analysed and evaluated.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Relationships between health and other sectors are understood.
• Client's rights are advocated for.
• Community is mobilised to participate in their own health development and other empowerment activities.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Primary Health Care and District Health Management principles to manage basic needs are applied.
• Maximum utilisation of physical, financial and human resources to improve quality of care in the community is managed.
• Science and technology is used effectively in evaluating health information and managing health services.
• Effective use of communication language skills is demonstrated.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Awareness of the importance of effective learning strategies is shown.
• Responsible citizenship, cultural sensitivity, education, career responsibilities and entrepreneurship abilities are demonstrated.

Integrated Assessment

This qualification will be assessed using both continuous and terminal assessment methods respectively. The module descriptor for each module specifies the methods of assessment including both formative and summative assessments. Learners will be given individual and group assessments, case studies and a final test at the end of each module. Assessment and evaluation will be based on knowledge, skills, values and attitude acquired by each student.