Degree in Medicine
The Degree is the professional qualification which will allow registration of the qualified learner with the Health Professions Council as a medical practitioner. The qualified learner will have the following abilities and knowledge:
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Health Care Knowledge:
- Sound understanding of health care, its promotion, and the prevention and management of disease.
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Anatomy and Physiology:
- Basic understanding of the normal structure, development, and function of the human body.
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Human Development:
- Understanding of the development of the individual as well as their role in family and community dynamics.
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Disease Understanding:
- Well-founded knowledge of diseases, physical effects, and pathological processes essential for clinical practice.
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Scientific Principles:
- Fundamental understanding and application of scientific principles in medical problem-solving and decision-making.
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Research Skills:
- Understanding of scientific research principles and their application in medical practice.
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Clinical Skills:
- Confident application of clinical skills in data acquisition, interpretation, assessment, and diagnosis of physical and mental conditions.
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Diagnostic Understanding:
- Knowledge of appropriate diagnostic aids and referral procedures for specialized diagnosis and care.
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Teamwork:
- Ability to work effectively with healthcare professionals in a multidisciplinary team setting.
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Management Skills:
- Demonstration of management skills necessary for effective healthcare leadership.
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Community Health:
- Commitment to high-quality healthcare, responsibility for the well-being of the community, and a focus on primary healthcare and community-oriented approaches.
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Ethical Practice:
- Ability to make independent medical decisions with consideration of ethical and legal aspects in treating diseases and providing empathetic care.
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Systems Thinking:
- Understanding that the world operates as interrelated systems and the importance of holistic problem-solving approaches.
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Global Standards:
- Awareness of South Africa's health needs and readiness to serve communities optimally while meeting international standards of excellence.
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Professional Development:
- Understanding the necessity for lifelong learning and ongoing skill development.
By completing the Degree in Medicine, learners will be equipped to provide comprehensive, ethical, and high-quality medical care while contributing positively to healthcare systems locally and globally.