University of Pretoria

Bachelor of Science Honours in Aerospace Medicine

Health Sciences and Social Services - Preventive Health

Purpose and Rationale

Course Purpose for Medical Doctors in Aerospace Medicine

The purpose of this course for medical doctors is multifaceted:

  1. Registration with Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA): Successful completion of this course will enable medical doctors to obtain registration with the HPCSA as an additional qualification. They will acquire diverse diagnostic, therapeutic, and investigative skills.

  2. Registration with Civil Aviation Authority: Another objective of this qualification is to enable learners to register with the Civil Aviation Authority as designated aviation medical examiners.

  3. Specialized Knowledge in Aerospace Medicine: Qualified learners will possess comprehensive and in-depth knowledge, specialized technical experience, and well-developed research skills in the field of Aerospace Medicine.

  4. Fostering Lifelong Learning: The course aims to cultivate an attitude of lifelong learning among doctors, ensuring continuous self-development and advancement in the field of Aerospace Medicine.

  5. Provide Consultants with Special Skills: The goal is to produce consultants with special skills in Aerospace Medicine, who can deliver and promote top-notch healthcare services and uphold high standards of knowledge and expertise in line with global benchmarks.

  6. Diverse Skill Set: The special skills acquired will encompass clinical, medicine, occupational health, flight environmental, and aircraft accident prevention aspects.

  7. Research Contribution: The qualification seeks to equip clinicians and occupational health consultants with research skills to contribute to the knowledge base of the profession and the aviation industry.

  8. Improving Aerospace Community Health: By producing consultants in Aerospace Medicine, the course aims to enhance the efficacy of medical certification for aviation personnel, elevate patient care standards, prevent diseases, and advance occupational health in the aviation sector and beyond.

In conclusion, this course not only aims to produce highly skilled medical professionals but also seeks to make a meaningful impact on the healthcare standards within the aerospace industry and the broader community.

Outcomes

  1. Obtain and assimilate scientific knowledge and associated practical experience appropriate to the discipline, to be applied critically in the aviation personnel assessment and management and in an industrial and clinical setting.
  2. Obtain professional and technical skills required to competently assess and manage aviation personnel in their medical selection and certification and promote flight safety specifically.
  3. Maintain continued competence and show a continuous interest in new developments in the field as a lifelong learner. Learners will have gained:
  4. In-depth knowledge of the research method used in the research, and insight into research methods.
  5. Act professionally ethically.

Assessment Criteria

Aerospace Medicine Certification Assessment

Theoretical Knowledge:

  • Demonstrated understanding of aerospace medicine principles and practices.
  • Presented seminars on current research in the field.
  • Completed a basic research project related to aerospace medicine.

Clinical History:

  • Obtained detailed clinical history from pilots and aviation personnel.
  • Documented relevant medical information related to flight safety.

Clinical Examination:

  • Conducted thorough clinical examinations on pilots and aviation personnel.
  • Assessed fitness for duty based on physical and mental health criteria.

Specialized Investigations:

  • Prescribed specialized investigations such as electrocardiograms, pulmonary function tests, and vision assessments.
  • Interpreted results of investigations to determine medical fitness for flight.

Therapeutic Regimen:

  • Developed appropriate therapeutic regimens for individuals with medical conditions impacting flight safety.
  • Evaluated and adjusted treatment plans in consultation with healthcare providers.

Industry Assistance:

  • Assisted the aerospace industry in conducting flight safety audits and accident prevention programs.
  • Integrated latest techniques and technology into practice to enhance safety measures.

Protocol Development:

  • Compiled an acceptable protocol for medical assessments of pilots and aviation personnel.
  • Implemented protocols to ensure compliance with aviation medical standards.

Responsibility and Professionalism:

  • Operated within the limits of competence and acted in accordance with professional norms.
  • Engaged in continuous assessment through portfolios, workplace assessments, and examinations.

Dissertation Submission:

  • Submitted a dissertation on a relevant aerospace medicine topic for evaluation by an external examiner.
  • Prepared to defend the dissertation orally if required by the examination board.

Assessment Criteria:

  • Continuous assessment based on portfolio submissions, research projects, and examinations.
  • Ensured high standards in written, oral, and practical examinations to evaluate theoretical knowledge, clinical skills, and research competencies.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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University of Pretoria
Description
The University of Pretoria is a leading research-intensive university located in Pretoria, South Africa. Established in 1908, it is one of the largest universities in the country and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university is known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and social impact. It has a diverse student body and a vibrant campus life, with numerous clubs, societies, and sports facilities. The University of Pretoria is also recognized for its research contributions and collaborations with national and international partners.

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