Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics
Health Sciences and Social Services - Curative Health
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose
The Bachelor of Health Science in Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics aims to develop learners into proficient orthotic and prosthetic professionals equipped with the necessary knowledge, attitudes, insights, and skills to address socio-economic and physical challenges specific to Africa. The program focuses on enabling learners to apply theoretical principles, evidence-based techniques, practical experiences, clinical procedures, and relevant skills to effectively rehabilitate orthotic and prosthetic patients in a socially accountable, ethical, and non-discriminatory manner. It emphasizes understanding and meeting the individual needs of disabled persons through mobility and self-dependence assistance, psychological support, and coping skill development.
The qualification also aims to prepare learners to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams, contribute to advancing the profession in an environmentally responsible manner, and utilize new research, innovations, and technologies to enhance patient care under the regulation of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Additionally, the program includes research components to equip learners for advanced studies at the Master's level and empowers them to establish and manage their own independent practices, incorporating basic business skills.
Rationale
The establishment of the Bachelor of Health Science in Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics at Level 8 is a response to the identified need for qualified professionals in the field by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the Department of Health. This professional qualification aligns with the South African government's healthcare system framework, emphasizing a team-based approach to healthcare delivery and minimizing duplication of functions. The program integrates clinical and technical components over four years, preparing learners to work alongside various healthcare professionals in multidisciplinary teams.
By providing a structured curriculum with both practical manufacturing and clinical exposure components, the qualification ensures that learners are well-prepared for the demands of the profession. The partnership with hospitals and private practices facilitates focused clinical practice activities to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. Furthermore, the qualification aligns with the Policy Framework and Strategy for Disability and Rehabilitation Services in South Africa and recognizes the crucial role orthotics and prosthetics professionals play in addressing disabilities within communities, promoting health, and improving quality of life for patients.
Moreover, the qualification aims to elevate learners from Category II to Category I practitioners in alignment with international standards, enhancing the standards of practice in the field and meeting the criteria set by the International Society of Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO). This upgrade prepares learners for independent practice and potential registration with the HPCSA as practitioners in orthotics and prosthetics.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate applied engagement as a forefront Clinician using the required techniques and skills to attend to patient care and treatment in the medical orthotics and prosthetics field.
- Function as an independent registered practitioner engaging in all ethical aspects required within the field of Orthotics and Prosthetics.
- Engage in good laboratory practice, and general laboratory management.
- Apply entrepreneurial, management and supervisory skills within a medical orthotics and prosthetics environment.
- Implement good communication and interpretation skills within the multi-disciplinary team.
- Design, formulate and implement an evidence-based treatment plan for the rehabilitation process of the patient.
- Manage and maintain Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in rehabilitation.
- Apply research strategies applicable in the field of rehabilitation.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Assess, evaluate, diagnose, prescribe, and measure medical orthotics and prosthetics devices for desired rehabilitation outcomes.
- Use applicable technology and skills to assess, measure, design, manufacture, fit, manage, and maintain devices.
- Practice as a clinician in the field, referring to the Scope of Practice with acts pertaining to registration with the HPCSA.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Recognize and apply ethical and legal responsibilities in interactions with patients, colleagues, and the community.
- Perform activities in terms of ethical rules of the HPCSA and Batho Pele principles.
- Treat and rehabilitate patients through independent decision making and self-governance.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Adhere to occupational health and safety regulations in the laboratory.
- Evaluate and assess patients in compliance with the HPCSA scope of practice.
- Design and manufacture devices according to national, international, and CPA standards.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Exercise personal initiative for the growth and implementation of practices.
- Demonstrate supervisory skills in overseeing technicians and learners.
- Control and maintain the center according to legal and accepted management principles.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Discuss and prepare oral and written reports for the multidisciplinary team.
- Implement a referral system within the team for patient rehabilitation.
- Make informed decisions based on psychosocial and physical aspects of the patient.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Display knowledge of human and basic sciences in rehabilitation planning.
- Apply techniques in original, creative, and innovative ways appropriate to complex contexts.
- Address practical and theoretical problems in critical and novel ways within the health sciences environment.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
- Attend CPD training activities to comply with HPCSA requirements.
- Gather and apply relevant technological information during CPD activities.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
- Implement evidence-based practice using documentation in rehabilitation.
- Enhance outcomes by staying updated with new technologies and developments.
- Conduct research in medical orthotics and prosthetics and multi-disciplinary healthcare environments.
Integrated Assessment:
- Use a variety of assessment options including case studies, projects, examinations, and practical exercises.
- Assess foundational and practical competence as well as reflexive competence.
- Measure applied competence in assessing, formulating treatment plans, and fitting devices effectively.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree(Min 480)
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 480
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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