Bachelor of Health Sciences in Podiatry
Health Sciences and Social Services - Rehabilitative Health/Services
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose:
The purpose of the Bachelor of Health Sciences in Podiatry is to produce professional graduates competent in the knowledge and skills required for managing and providing an integrated, holistic scientifically based podiatric health care service to all sectors of society. The qualification develops reflective, caring practitioners capable of integrating principles, theory, proven techniques, and relevant clinical skills in the delivery of a service focusing on promotion of foot health, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of foot and lower limb related problems. Skills developed in scientific enquiry, critical thinking, and problem-solving enable qualifying learners to conduct research, undertake further study, and become lifelong learners. Qualifying learners register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) entitling them to practice independently and within a multidisciplinary team in the private or public health sector or in education, research, occupational health, and the corporate sector.
Rationale:
Podiatry, as a health discipline, is concerned with the foot and lower limb health and diseases. Podiatrists focus on the structure and function of the normal foot and lower limb, the mechanics of locomotion and gait, the aetiology, pathology and diagnosis and treatment of abnormalities, and the theory and practice of therapeutics. Economic production and development are dependent on contributions made by individuals in society. A healthy society is a prerequisite for economic welfare. Effective ambulation is an important facet of public health, and the lack thereof affects not only production and economic growth but the quality of life of individuals.
While a number of medical and paramedical disciplines do address foot and lower limb related systems, the field of podiatry specifically addresses the ambulatory aspect of the individual's health from an integrated, holistic, and focused perspective. In order to meet foot and lower limb health needs of the population, a sufficient number of appropriately qualified, specialized healthcare professionals are essential. On a national basis, there is a serious shortage of podiatrists, and podiatric facilities are located mainly in high-density urban areas. More podiatrists are required and need to be trained to address this shortage. To meet the requirements of the Health Professions Council of South Africa, access to clinical training sites such as community clinics, tertiary and secondary hospitals is vital to ensure adequate clinical training at the undergraduate level. The development of a Bachelor's Degree in Podiatric addresses this need, while Postgraduate Studies at Masters' and Doctoral levels provide for further research and innovation in this field.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate competency in the performance of routine and specialised podiatric skills in order to clinically assess, diagnose, treat and manage conditions and/or pathology affecting the foot and lower limb.
- Apply the principles, proven techniques and specialised skills required for the promotion of foot health and the prevention and rehabilitation of problems of the foot and lower limb.
- Apply knowledge of Health and Safety regulations, Code/s of Practice, Ethics, Human Rights and Medical Law in the optimal performance of podiatric practice.
- Demonstrate the application of pertinent knowledge of the psycho-social, biological and basic sciences to podiatric practice.
- Recognise and appraise systemic conditions and the signs and symptoms that impact on the foot and lower-limb for the purpose of treatment, referral and subsequent management.
- Manage a clinical practice in all sectors of the community within the health care environment effectively, demonstrating professionalism and an entrepreneurial ability.
- Develop research skills and conduct research within a podiatric context in order to contribute to the development of the profession, continue with life-long learning and become a reflective practitioner.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Accurate assessment of presenting clinical symptoms
- Implementation of a pertinent management plan
- Correct application of routine and specialised podiatric skills
- Assessment and management of special groups
- Application of podiatric protocols for patient care
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Correct application of integrated theory, techniques, and skills
- Implementation of rehabilitative treatment regimens
- Design and manufacture of rehabilitation devices
- Promotion of foot and lower limb health
- Provision of pertinent information and guidance to patients
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Implementation of health and safety regulations
- Accountability and understanding of scope of practice
- Valuing patient rights and confidentiality
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Integration and application of basic and biological sciences
- Correct application of anatomy, physiology, and pathology
- Recognition and response to psycho-social aspects and cultural diversity
- Respect for cultural and psychological diversity of patients
- Clear communication of procedures and requirements for informed consent
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Identification and management of systemic conditions
- Selection, application, and interpretation of diagnostic tests
- Implementation of medical and pharmacological therapeutic treatment
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Delivery of comprehensive podiatric care to all sectors of the community
- Demonstration of integrated knowledge of management principles, procedures, and legislation
- Design, equip, upgrade, and manage a podiatric facility
- Accurate maintenance of patient records and data
- Implementation of quality assurance programmes and control measures
- Demonstration of understanding of electronic communication systems
- Effective communication and cooperation with patients and stakeholders
- Demonstration of entrepreneurial ability and marketing strategies
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
- Demonstration of research skills, principles, and methodology
- Alignment of podiatric research with national, health sector, and professional needs
- Critical evaluation and reflection of sources of information
Integrated Assessment:
- Variety of summative and formative assessment methods
- Assessment of clinical competence through simulated and clinical assessment
- Successful completion of a research project
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is applied
- Evaluation of competent and safe practice in any clinical context
- Development of reflective competence through reflection-in-action and reflection-on-action.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree(Min 480)
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 480
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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