General practitioners (GPs) play a pivotal role in healthcare, serving as frontline providers who address a wide range of medical concerns for patients. The Postgraduate Diploma in General Practice offered by the Foundation for Professional Development (FPD) aims to equip GPs with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in an ever-changing healthcare landscape.

Covered in this article

Advancing management practices in medical settings
Meeting the Evolving Needs of Healthcare Professionals
FAQs

This programme offers medical courses in both clinical and non-clinical subjects, providing a holistic approach to professional development for GPs. Clinical subjects address pressing public health issues, keeping practitioners abreast of the latest advancements in medical treatment and management. Non-clinical subjects focus on medical practice management, ensuring GPs are equipped to navigate regulatory requirements, ethical dilemmas, and the business aspects of healthcare delivery.

Advancing management practices in medical settings

Effective management practice is essential for running a successful medical practice and delivering high-quality patient care. The Postgraduate Diploma in General Practice programme equips GPs with the skills needed to manage their practices efficiently while prioritising patient well-being.

Students learn about healthcare policies and regulations, financial management in medical settings, risk management strategies, patient communication and engagement, and the integration of technology in healthcare delivery. These courses not only enhance the day-to-day operations of medical practices but also contribute to improved patient outcomes and overall practice sustainability.

Meeting the Evolving Needs of Healthcare Professionals

The healthcare environment is constantly evolving, with new challenges and opportunities emerging regularly. The Postgraduate Diploma in General Practice is designed to meet the evolving needs of healthcare professionals by providing a curriculum that fosters continued professional development and addresses subjects directly relevant to the medical practice environment.

This qualification serves as a platform for GPs to stay updated with the latest medical advancements, evidence-based practices, and regulatory requirements. It also encourages lifelong learning and ongoing skills enhancement, ensuring that GPs can adapt to changes in healthcare delivery, technological innovations, and patient expectations.

The Postgraduate Diploma in General Practice offered plays a vital role in empowering GPs with specialised knowledge, advancing management practices in medical settings, and meeting the evolving needs of healthcare professionals. By equipping GPs with the skills and expertise needed to navigate complex healthcare challenges, this programme contributes to improved patient care, practice efficiency, and professional satisfaction among general practitioners.

FAQs About the Postgraduate Diploma in General Practice

1. What is the Postgraduate Diploma in General Practice?

The Postgraduate Diploma in General Practice is a specialised programme designed to equip general practitioners (GPs) with advanced clinical and management skills. It helps medical professionals stay updated with the latest public health challenges, regulatory changes, and practice management strategies to enhance patient care and ensure practice sustainability.

2. Who is eligible to apply for this programme?

To apply, candidates must have:

• A Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) or an equivalent qualification.

• Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) or an equivalent international regulatory body.

3. What topics does the diploma cover?

The curriculum includes both clinical and non-clinical modules:

• Clinical modules: Mental health, HIV/AIDS & tuberculosis, metabolic and respiratory disorders, cardiovascular diseases & diabetes, rheumatology & dermatology, antibiotics & allergies.

• Non-clinical modules: Ethics, business management in healthcare, and action research.

4. How long does it take to complete the programme?

The diploma runs over 18 months, divided into eight-week modules (seven weeks of study and a one-week break).

5. How is the programme delivered?

The programme is designed for flexible online learning, allowing working professionals to balance their studies with their medical practice.

6. What are the computer and technical requirements for online learning?

To study effectively online, students need:

• A laptop or PC with a stable internet connection.

• Basic computer skills (email, document management, web browsing).

• Audio and video recording and playback capabilities.

• Access to e-books, PDFs, and online study materials.

7. What is the significance of the clinical modules?

The clinical modules address major public health concerns, equipping GPs with evidence-based knowledge on:

• Mental health screening and treatment.

• Comprehensive HIV/AIDS and TB management.

• Diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and metabolic disorders.

• Managing respiratory illnesses, including post-COVID-19 conditions.

• Rheumatology and dermatology in general practice.

• Antibiotic stewardship and allergy management.

8. What skills will I gain from the non-clinical modules?

Non-clinical modules prepare GPs to navigate the business and ethical challenges of running a medical practice. These include:

• Ethics and legal compliance in healthcare.

• Business and financial management for medical practices.

• Action research, allows practitioners to conduct studies on relevant healthcare challenges in their practice.

9. What documentation is required for the application?

Applicants must submit:

• A completed application form.

• A certified copy of their ID or passport (for foreign students).

• A certified copy of their highest qualification.

• SAQA/USAF verification (for foreign qualifications).

• Additional documents for Credit Accumulation & Transfer (CAT) or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) if applicable.