Foundations of Australian Medical Practice (IMG101)

Course Content

IMG101 is a core course subject that teaches medical knowledge and skills across a wide range of topics and disciplines. The course examines disease processes, clinical examination, diagnosis, investigation, therapy and management. IMG101 is completed online through METC Institute’s advanced Canvas LMS portal. It includes 21 comprehensive modules that form the foundations of Australian medical practice, to be completed over 42 weeks and ~ 1680-2100 hours of study. The course is supported by unlimited access to course tutors, all of whom are specialist medical practitioners that provide expert guidance and clarification, individualised to personal requirements.

For detailed information and a full course prospectus, contact METC Institute at [email protected]

An overview of the curriculum is provided below:

Module 1 – Integument / Dermatology

This module includes consideration of common disorders of the skin and dermatology, subcutaneous tissues, burns, wounds and wound healing, and plastic and reconstructive surgery.  Completion of this module will require 40-50 hours of study.

Specific learning topics include:

A) SKIN

• Normal structure, function and development of the skin
• Common and serious conditions of the skin
• Effect of UV radiation on the skin
• Microbiology of the skin
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the skin
• Therapeutic interventions applicable to conditions of the skin
• Clinical skills associated with skin problems

B) SURGICAL

• Benign cutaneous pathologies
• Skin cancers
• Melanoma
• Burns
• Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

Module 2 – Head and Neck / ENT

This module includes consideration of ophthalmology, head and neck, otorhinolaryngology, pharynx and salivary glands.  Completion of this module will require 80-100 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) EYE

• Normal structure, function and development of the eye
• Pathology of the eye
• Common and serious conditions relating to the eye
• Effect of UV radiation on the eye
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the eye
• Therapeutic interventions applicable to conditions of the eye
• Clinical skills associated with eye problems

B) DISORDERS OF SPECIAL SENSES

• Regional head and neck anatomy
• Regional anatomy and physiology of inner ear auditory organs and pathways
• Inner ear vestibular organs and pathways involved in balance
• Clinical reasoning: approach to assessment of a patient presenting with dizziness / vertigo
• Common and serious disorders that present with vestibular dysfunction, vertigo or disequilibrium
• Common and serious conditions that present with sensorineural hearing loss
• Anatomical structures that may be involved in a patient presenting with olfactory loss
• Clinical reasoning: approach to assessment of a patient presenting with olfactory loss
• Common and serious conditions that present with anosmia
• Anatomical structures and relevant physiology that may be involved in a patient presenting with acute monocular visual loss
• Clinical reasoning: approach to assessment of a patient presenting with monocular visual loss

C) SURGICAL – EAR, NOSE & THROAT (OTOLARYNGOLOGY)

• Establish a core knowledge base in ENT / head and neck anatomy and physiology
• Develop an understanding of pathophysiological processes and the natural history of treated and untreated ENT disease processes
• Learn to incorporate knowledge of normal anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology and other basic sciences into the management of clinical ENT problems
• Develop proficiency in examinations skills to assess ear, nose, throat, neck, voice and vestibular conditions
• Develop the ability to recognise common, urgent and non-urgent ENT conditions, to be able to systematically evaluate these conditions, to assess their priorities for treatment, and to initiate appropriate investigation, treatment and /or referral
• Learn the indications for and interpretation of basic laboratory, radiological and physiological investigations in the ENT patient

D) SURGICAL – NECK LESIONS

• Understand basic topographical anatomy of the neck, including CT anatomy
• Describe the embryologic descent and fate of the thyroglossal tract
• Explain the origin and presentation of branchial cysts
• Recognize the fundamental differences between benign and malignant lumps within the salivary glands
• Describe the presentation and management of submandibular salivary calculi
• Describe the pathophysiology of a pharyngeal pouch
• Outline how to clinically recognize a carotid body tumour
• Outline the diagnostic approach to a pathologic lymph node in the neck

Module 3 – Nervous System / Neurology

This module includes consideration of the brain, cranial nerves, cerebrospinal fluid, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, regional anaesthesia and the autonomic nervous system.  Completion of this module will require 120-150 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) PERIPHERAL NERVE & PLEXUS

• Normal structure of the peripheral nervous system (PNS)
• Normal physiology and biochemistry of the peripheral nervous system
• Functional anatomy of the upper limb
• Pain
• Pathological process of nerve injury and repair
• Common and serious conditions of the peripheral nervous system
• Clinical skills associated with the presentation of a peripheral neuropathy

B) SPINAL CORD & AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM

• Normal structure and development of the axial skeleton and spinal cord
• Functional organisation of the spinal cord
• Dermatomes, myotomes and sclerotomes
• Autonomic nervous system
• Common and serious conditions of the axial skeleton and spinal cord
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in spinal cord injury and lower back pain
• Clinical skills associated with spinal cord injury and lower back pain

C) BRAIN & HIGHER CENTRES

• Normal structure and development of the central nervous system (CNS)
• Vascular supply of the CNS
• Speech and higher centres
• CNS biochemistry
• Nerve injury
• Common and serious conditions of the central nervous system
• Commonly used diagnostic investigations of CNS disease
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in conditions of the central nervous system
• Clinical skills associated with stroke management

D) CNS INFECTIONS & INFLAMMATION

• Normal structure and functional anatomy of the cranial nerves
• Infections of central nervous system
• Common and serious inflammatory / autoimmune conditions of nervous system
• Pathology of the nervous system – infective cerebral disease
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of nervous system
• Immunisation
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in conditions of nervous system
• Neuroimaging
• Clinical skills associated with CNS infections

E) DEGENERATIVE NERVE DISEASE

• Common and serious neurodegenerative and neuromotor disorders
• Coordination of movement
• Pathology of nervous system – congenital, degenerative, dementia, demyelination
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the nervous system

F) SEIZURE DISORDERS & CNS TUMOURS

• The unconscious patient
• Seizure disorder & epilepsy
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in seizure disorder and epilepsy
• Pathology of nervous system – tumours (peripheral nerve sheath, CNS)
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of nervous system
• Clinical skills associated with the presentation of the unconscious patient and seizures

Module 4 – Musculoskeletal / Orthopaedics / Rheumatology

This module includes consideration of bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons, physical medicine, trauma, geriatrics and rehabilitation.  Completion of this module will require 120-150 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) BONE GROWTH DEVELOPMENT & AGEING

• Normal structure, function and development of the skeletal system
• Normal physiology and biochemistry of the skeletal system
• Pathology of the skeletal system
• Common and serious conditions of the musculoskeletal system
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the skeletal system
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the management of osteoporosis and osteomalacia
• Clinical skills associated with the skeletal system

B) DISEASES OF JOINTS & AUTOIMMUNITY

• Normal structure, function and development of the immune system and joints
• Normal physiology and biochemistry of synovial joints
• Pathology of joints
• Common and serious conditions of the joints
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations used in joint disease
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the management of joint disease
• Clinical skills associated with conditions of the joint

C) DISEASES OF MUSCLE & LIGAMENT

• Normal structure, function and development of the muscular system and ligaments
• Normal physiology and biochemistry of muscles and ligaments
• Common and serious conditions of muscles and ligaments
• Commonly used investigations in conditions of muscles and ligaments, and in myasthenia gravis
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the management of the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the above conditions

D) INFECTION & NEOPLASIA OF THE SKELETAL SYSTEM

• Normal structure and function of bone
• Normal physiology and biochemistry – response to infection
• Microbiology
• Common and serious conditions of bone
• Commonly used investigations in the above conditions of bone
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the management of the above conditions of bone
• Clinical skills associated with the above conditions of bone

E) GERIATRICS

• Normal physiology and pathophysiology of frailty and ageing
• Clinical reasoning: approach to assessment of a patient presenting with common and serious conditions of geriatric medicine
• Clinical reasoning: approach to management of a patient presenting with common and serious conditions of geriatric medicine
• Common and serious conditions of geriatric medicine

F) SURGICAL – ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

• Infections of bones and joints
• Arthritides
• Metabolic bone disease
• Common soft tissue disorders
• Oversuse syndromes
• Developmental disorders
• Tumours
• Common, life-threatening or treatable disorders
• Spinal disorders
• Management of common orthopaedic injuries / fractures / trauma
• Common complications of orthopaedic trauma
• Orthopaedic emergencies (specifically related to urgency, and importance)
• Problems in the elderly
• Paediatric orthopaedic conditions

Module 5 – Circulatory System / Heart / Vessels

This module includes consideration of the heart, circulation, hypertension, haemorrhage, shock, pericardium, great vessels, peripheral arteries, veins and lymphatics.  Completion of this module will require 120-150 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) SHOCK

• Anatomy and organisation of the cardiovascular system
• Physiology of cardiovascular system
• Common and serious conditions of cardiovascular system
• Microbiology – contamination of wounds
• Emergency response / management
• Clinical skills – signs of shock

B) ISCHAEMIC HEART DISEASE / ARRHYTHMIA

• Normal structure and development of cardiovascular system (heart, blood vessels and conducting system)
• Normal physiology and biochemistry of cardiovascular system (heart muscle, blood vessels and conducting system)
• Common and serious conditions of cardiovascular system
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations for cardiovascular disorders
• Therapeutic options applicable in conditions of cardiovascular system
• Clinical skills associated with the cardiovascular system

C) THROMBOSIS / EMBOLISM / VASCULAR DISEASE / HYPERTENSION

• Normal structure and function of the peripheral vascular system (arterial and venous)
• Common and serious conditions affecting the vascular system, in particular the peripheral vascular system
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the peripheral vascular system (arterial and venous), including vasculitis and thromboembolism
• Therapeutic options (including prevention) applicable in conditions affecting the vascular system
• Clinical skills associated with the peripheral vascular system and the presentations of calf pain, chest pain, and dyspnoea

D) VALVULAR HEART DISEASE / CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE

• Anatomy and development of the heart
• Physiology of the cardiac cycle
• Common and serious conditions of cardiovascular system including valvular disease, congenital heart disease and degenerative processes
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations for above cardiovascular conditions
• Microbiology and immunology
• Therapeutic options applicable in  above conditions of the cardiovascular system
• Clinical skills associated with above conditions of the cardiovascular system

E) HEART FAILURE

• Normal structure and function of the heart
• Common and serious conditions of cardiovascular system including left heart failure, right heart failure, acute pulmonary oedema, congestive heart failure and cor pulmonale
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations for the above listed conditions
• Therapeutic options applicable in the above listed conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the above listed conditions
• Recognising heart failure – the ECG and Chest X-ray reading

F) SURGICAL – CARDIAC & VASCULAR SURGERY

• Peripheral arterial disease
• Aneurysm
• Venous disease
• Ulcers, diabetes and lymphoedema
• Cardiac surgery

Module 6 – Respiratory System / Lungs / Chest Wall

This module includes consideration of respiration, mechanics of gas exchange and transport, lungs, bronchial tree, mediastinum, chest and chest wall.  Completion of this module will require 120-150 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) ASTHMA & IMMUNE-MEDIATED LUNG DISEASES

• Normal structure and development of the respiratory system (lower respiratory tract), including the thoracic wall and diaphragm
• Normal physiology and biochemistry of the respiratory system
• Immunology of hypersensitivity
• Common and serious conditions of the lower respiratory tract
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the respiratory system
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the management of asthma
• Clinical skills associated with the respiratory system and above conditions

B) COPD / OCCUPATIONAL & INTERSTITIAL LUNG DISEASES

• Common and serious conditions of the respiratory tract including COPD, occupational, interstitial and systemic diseases affecting the lung, including asbestos-related diseases and chronic respiratory failure
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the respiratory system and above conditions

C) INFECTIONS OF RESPIRATORY TRACT AND SEPSIS / ARDS

• Normal structure, function and development of the upper respiratory system, ear and hearing apparatus
• Common and serious conditions of the respiratory system including pneumonia, other common and important infections of the upper and lower respiratory tract, respiratory failure, sepsis, SIRS, ARDS and MODS
• Infections of the respiratory tract/system including normal and impaired defence mechanisms, and common and important microorganisms
• Physiology and assessment of hearing
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the respiratory system and above conditions

D) LUNG CANCER

• Normal structure, function and development of the respiratory system and the thorax, including pleural surfaces
• Common and serious conditions of the lower respiratory tract including primary lung cancer, solitary pulmonary nodule and pleural effusion
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the respiratory system in the above conditions
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the respiratory system and above conditions

E) COUGH & VOICE CHANGES

• Anatomical structures that may be involved in a patient presenting with persistent cough or voice changes
• Pathological processes that may be involved in a patient presenting with persistent cough or voice changes
• Clinical reasoning: Approach to assessment of a patient presenting with persistent cough or voice changes
• Clinical reasoning: Approach to management of a patient presenting with persistent cough or voice changes
• Common and serious conditions that present with persistent cough or voice changes

F) THORACIC SURGERY

• Identify rib fractures on imaging and list implications for underlying structures
• Recognize a pneumothorax on imaging, list causes and formulate a management plan
• Be able to recognize and institute early management of a tension pneumothorax
• Discuss the pathophysiology of pleural effusions
• Contrast the presentation and management of empyema and lung abscess
• Form a differential diagnosis and investigative work-up of the solitary lung nodule (‘coin lesion’)
• Outline the management of non small cell lung cancer

Module 7 – Gastrointestinal System / Abdomen / Abdominal Wall

This module includes consideration of digestion and excretion, oesophagus and diaphragm, stomach, duodenum, small bowel, colon, appendix, rectum, anus, peritoneal cavity, acute abdomen, liver, biliary tree, pancreas, pelvic floor, perineum, abdominal wall, hernias and the inguino-scrotal region.  Completion of this module will require 120-150 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) LIVER DISEASE

• Normal structure, function and development of the hepatobiliary system, and hepatic portal system
• Common and serious conditions of the liver
• Infections of the hepatobiliary system, particularly the hepatitis viruses
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the hepatobiliary system
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in conditions of the liver
• Clinical skills associated with the hepatobiliary system

B) UPPER ABDOMINAL

•  Normal structure, function and development of the upper gastrointestinal tract (mouth to stomach) and gallbladder and pancreas
• Common and serious conditions of upper gastrointestinal tract, gallbladder, biliary tract and pancreas, presenting as upper abdominal pain
• Infections of gastrointestinal tract, particularly upper
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the upper GIT
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the above conditions of the upper gastrointestinal tract, gallbladder, biliary tract and pancreas
• Clinical skills associated with the upper gastrointestinal tract, gallbladder and pancreas

C) SMALL BOWEL

• Normal development, structure and function of the small intestines, abdominal wall and peritoneum
• Common and serious conditions of the gastrointestinal tract
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the above conditions of the gastrointestinal tract
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable to the above conditions of the gastrointestinal tract
• Clinical skills associated with the assessment of patients with a small bowel disorder

D) LARGE BOWEL

• Normal development, structure and function of the large bowel
• Common and serious conditions of the large bowel
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the above conditions of the large bowel
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable to the above conditions of the large bowel
• Clinical skills associated with the assessment of a patient with a large bowel disorder

E) GENERAL SURGERY

• Hernias
• Upper GI – Oesophagus
• Upper GI – Gastroduodenal
• HPB – Hepatic
• HPB – Biliary
• HPB – Pancreas
• Small Bowel
• Colorectal – Colorectal Cancer
• Colorectal – Benign colorectal disease
• Colorectal – Perianal Conditions

Module 8 – Breast / Endocrine System

This module includes consideration of the breast, pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, calcium, bone metabolism, adrenal, diabetes and pancreatic islets, gut hormones, neuroendocrine interactions and metabolic responses to injury.  Completion of this module will require 80-100 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) ENDOCRINE SYSTEM I

• Normal structure and function of the endocrine system, focusing on the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands
• Biochemistry and physiology of hormone function
• Common and serious conditions of the endocrine system, focusing on hypothalamic, pituitary and adrenal glands, and ectopic secretion of hormones
• Commonly used investigations in the assessment of endocrine system function and disease
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable in the above conditions of the endocrine system
• Clinical skills associated with the endocrine system, including assessment of visual fields

B) ENDOCRINE SYSTEM II

• Normal structure and function of the thyroid and parathyroid glands, and associated tissues
• Common and serious conditions of the endocrine system, focusing on the thyroid and parathyroid glands
• Commonly used investigations in the assessment of thyroid and parathyroid function and disease
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the endocrine system, including eye examination

C) BREAST

• Normal structure, function and development of the breast
• Control of the cell cycle, genetics of cancer, genetic considerations of specific female cancers (breast and ovarian)
• Common and serious (predominantly) female cancers and precancerous conditions
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of female cancers
• Therapeutic and Prevention Interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the reproductive system

D) BREAST & ENDOCRINE SURGERY

• Benign breast disease
• Breast cancer
• Thyroid and parathyroid
• Adrenal and Spleen

Module 9 – Female Reproductive System / Obstetrics & Gynaecology

This module includes consideration of the female reproductive system, disorders of uterus, tubes, ovaries, vagina, fertility, contraception, hormones, menstruation, obstetrics, pregnancy, labour, abortion, eclampsia, obstetrical haemorrhage, menopause, pelvic infections, vaginal discharge, pruritis and gynaecological malignancies.  Completion of this module will require 120-150 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) FEMALE HEALTH & DEVELOPMENT I

• Normal structure and development of the female reproductive system
• Normal physiology and biochemistry of the female reproductive system
• Common and serious conditions of the female reproductive system including disorders of menstruation and abnormal vaginal / uterine bleeding
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the female reproductive system
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the female reproductive system

B) FEMALE HEALTH & DEVELOPMENT II

• Normal physiology and biochemistry of reproduction
• Maternal hormonal and physiological changes throughout pregnancy, parturition, the puerperium, and lactation
• The placenta
• Embryological and fetal development
• Principles of investigation and management of uncomplicated pregnancy
• Common and serious conditions of the female reproductive system
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations related to infertility and early pregnancy bleeding
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable for infertility, miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy
• Clinical skills associated with pregnancy

C) FEMALE HEALTH & DEVELOPMENT III

• Normal structure, biochemistry and physiology of human genetic material
• Types and mechanisms of chromosomal abnormalities and single gene defects
• Determination and development of sex, and physiological changes of puberty
• Common and serious conditions due to chromosomal abnormalities
• Common and serious conditions affecting reproductive system development
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations used for genetic disorders
• General management strategies applicable for the above conditions, including available support services
• Clinical skills associated with the reproductive system in a patient with suspected genetic disorder or family history of genetic disorder

D) FEMALE HEALTH & DEVELOPMENT IV

• Microbiology of the reproductive system
• Infections of the male and female reproductive system, including HIV
• Common and serious conditions of the reproductive tract, including pelvic inflammatory disease, sexually transmitted infections and other common infections of the reproductive tract
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the reproductive system in infection
• Therapeutic and Preventative Interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the reproductive system in a patient with pelvic pain / STI / genital tract infection

E) OBSTETRICS

• Background knowledge
• Pre-pregnancy
• Antenatal assessment and management
• Assessment of fetal wellbeing in pregnancy
• Multiple pregnancy
• Infections
• Labour and delivery
• Antepartum haemorrhage
• Important medical problems in pregnancy
• Ethical and medico-legal issues

Module 10 – Haemopoietic System / Haematology / Blood / Blood Products

This module includes consideration of blood cells, proteins, blood products and transfusions, fat embolism, bone marrow and blood production, coagulation and anticoagulation, haemolysis, haemostasis and bleeding disorders.  Completion of this module will require 80-100 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) HAEMATOLOGY I

• Normal structure, function and development of the haemopoietic system
• Normal structure, function and development of the lymphoid system
• Normal Physiology and biochemistry of the haemopoietic system, in particular control of the cell cycle and haematopoiesis
• Common and serious conditions of the lymphatic system
• Overview of viral and other infections causing lymphadenopathy, including HIV/AIDS, infectious mononucleosis, cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis and others
• Screening and diagnostic investigations of the lymphoid system
• Therapeutic options applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the lymphoid system

B) HAEMATOLOGY II

• Normal structure, function and development of the haematological system
• Normal physiology and biochemistry of the haematopoietic system
• Common and serious conditions of the haematology system
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the haematology system
• Therapeutic options applicable in the above conditions of the haematology system
• Clinical skills associated with the haematology system

C) HAEMATOLOGY III

• Normal physiology and development of the haematological and immune systems, with focus on the coagulation system, platelets and blood proteins with haemostatic or haemolytic properties
• Common and serious conditions of the haematology and immune systems, specifically multiple myeloma, thrombophilia, bleeding disorders and abnormalities of platelet counts
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations the haematology and immune systems
• Therapeutic options applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the haematological and immunological systems

Module 11 – Renal System / Urology / Male Reproductive System

This module includes consideration of fluid and electrolyte renal haemostasis, nephrology, renal function, urology, urinary collecting system, disorder of kidneys, bladder, prostate, male reproductive system, disorders of testis, epididymis and the penis.  Completion of this module will require 120-150 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) BLADDER OUTLET OBSTRUCTION / URINARY TRACT INFECTION

• Normal structure, function and development of the kidney and urinary tract
• Common and serious conditions of the kidney and urinary tract including micturition disorders, prostate disorders, incontinence, urinary tract infection and congenital and inherited disorders of the urinary tract
• Microbiology of the urinary tract
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the kidney and urinary tract in the above conditions
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the above conditions

B) NEPHRITIC & NEPHROTIC SYNDROMES

• Common and serious conditions relating to the function of the kidney and urinary tract including glomerulopathies, reno-vascular disease and secondary hypertension, metabolic derangements in kidney disease, and common and important co-morbidities in chronic kidney disease
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the kidney and urinary tract in the above conditions
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the kidney and urinary tract in the above conditions

C) ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY

• Common and serious conditions relating to the function of the kidney and urinary tract including acute kidney injury and disorders of tubular function (including genetic disorders)
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the kidney and urinary tract in the above conditions
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the kidney and urinary tract

D) CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE

• Common and serious conditions relating to the function of the kidney and urinary tract including chronic kidney injury, urolithiasis, malignancies of the urinary tract and transplant medicine
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the kidney and urinary tract in the above conditions
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the above conditions

E) UROLOGY

• Urinary tract calculi
• Urothelial tumours
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia
• Testicular conditions

Module 12 – Mental State / Intellectual Function / Behavioural Problems

This module includes consideration of mental deficiency, personality disorders, psychosomatic and psychosocial problems.  Completion of this module will require 40-50 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) DEPRESSION / ANXIETY / MOOD DISORDERS

• Neurotransmitter abnormalities in Depression
• Diagnosis of mental health issues
• Natural history of disease in mood and anxiety disorders
• Suicide and its prevention
• Borderline personality disorder
• Role of psychotherapy in the management of depression and anxiety
• Role of parenting and psychoeducation
• Pharmacology of drugs used in mental health
• Treating drug overdoses
• CBT

Module 13 – Major Psychiatric Disorders / Drug & Alcohol Abuse

This module includes consideration of psychosis, organic brain disorders, alcoholism and substance abuse.  Completion of this module will require 40-50 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) SUBSTANCE USE & ABUSE

• Therapeutic intervention in substance abuse: principles of psychological intervention
• Therapeutic intervention in substance abuse: principles of pharmacological intervention
• Drugs of dependence – Alcohol
• Public health implications of substance abuse
• Malnutrition associated with alcohol dependence
• Substance-induced mood disorders / dual diagnosis

B) SCHIZOPHRENIA

• Physiology of schizophrenia
• Determinants of psychosis and possible mechanisms
• Differentiating psychosis from other disorders
• Therapeutic intervention: drug therapy for schizophrenia
• Living with psychosis: consumer and carer perspectives
• Legal issues

Module 14 – Normal and Abnormal Growth and Development / Child Health / Paediatrics

This module includes consideration of genetics, embryology, normal growth and development, errors of development, child health and paediatrics.  Completion of this module will require 80-100 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Relate the pathogenesis of common/important paediatric illness to its expected presentation, natural history and implications for management.
• Recognise and differentiate the clinical signs of a seriously ill child.
• Develop and apply a clinical approach to common/important acute and chronic paediatric presentations.
• Develop and apply clinical reasoning skills in the assessment and management of a child.
• Develop and apply skills in communicating with children and their parents.
• Apply strategies for health prevention and maintenance within the family, social, cultural and community context for the child.
• Recognise and apply strategies for safe patient care including risk prevention, public health awareness and infection control.
• Access, evaluate and apply clinical research findings in the management of sick children.
• Develop skills in evaluating their performance and directing their own learning.
• Demonstrate the principles of ethical medical practice through their interaction with children and their families, and with colleagues.
• Demonstrate an awareness of the importance of multidisciplinary teams in the management of children

B) PAEDIATRIC CONDITIONS OF FOCUS

• Cardiovascular – Tetralogy of Fallot
• Cardiovascular – Rheumatic Fever
• Respiratory – Otitis Media
• Respiratory – Cystic Fibrosis
• Respiratory – Asthma
• Gastrointestinal – Giardiasis
• Gastrointestinal – Obesity
• Gastrointestinal – Glycogen Storage Disease
• Gastrointestinal – Type I Diabetes
• Mental Health – Anxiety Disorder
• Mental Health – Depression, Suicide
• Mental Health – Drug Overdose
• Reproduction & Development – Down Syndrome
• Reproduction & Development – Teenage Pregnancy
• Musculoskeletal – Osgood-Schlatter Disease
• Immunology, Haematology & Neoplasia – Severe Combined Immunodeficiency
• Immunology, Haematology & Neoplasia – Thalassaemia Major
• Immunology, Haematology & Neoplasia – Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia
• Immunology, Haematology & Neoplasia – Eczema, Skin Infection, Anaphylaxis
• Neurology – Epilepsy
• Neurology – Meningitis
• Renal – Glomerulonephritis
• Orthopaedics & Rheumatology – Childhood Fractures
• Orthopaedics & Oncology – Osteosarcoma

Module 15 – Nutrition & Metabolism

This module includes consideration of metabolism and nutrition, normal fluid and electrolyte balance and disorders, acid-base balance and disorders.  Completion of this module will require 80-100 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) METABOLISM & NUTRITION I

• Histology of the pancreas
• Radiological anatomy of the abdomen
• Normal physiological and biochemical functions relating to nutrition, digestion and metabolism
• Common and serious conditions related to nutritional imbalance
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the above conditions
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable to the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the assessment of a patient with the above conditions

B) METABOLISM & NUTRITION II

• Normal physiological and biochemical functions relating to metabolism
• Common and serious acquired and inherited metabolic disorders, including type 1 diabetes mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and inborn errors of metabolism
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the above conditions
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable to the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the assessment of a patient with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, DKA or other metabolic disorder

C) OEDEMA & FLUIDS

• Understanding and integration of fluid homeostasis
• Common and serious conditions of disorders of fluid homeostasis
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations in the above conditions
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the assessment of oedema and skin ulcers

Module 16 – Infectious Diseases

This module includes consideration of bacterial infectious diseases, parasites, viruses and viral disease.  Completion of this module will require 40-50 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTIONS

• Normal physiology and biochemistry of response to infection
• Microbiology of opportunistic infections
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of infection
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with a presentation of recurrent infections

B) INFECTIONS OF GLOBAL & LOCAL SIGNIFICANCE

• Travel Medicine
• Arthropod-borne diseases: with particular emphasis on malaria and dengue fever
• Therapeutic Interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Diseases (non-arthropod-borne) of global significance, with an emphasis on tuberculosis
• Diseases of local significance (Australia)
• Role of the diagnostic Microbiology laboratory

Module 17 – Clinical Pharmacology

This module includes consideration of physiological regulation, pharmacology and pharmacokinetics, therapeutics, synaptic transmission, toxicity and poisoning.  Completion of this module will require 40-50 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the general types and clinical usage of drugs for each organ system
• Demonstrate knowledge concerning each major drug class including mechanisms of action, important therapeutic actions and indications, and important (prevalent or life-threatening) adverse effects
• Demonstrate knowledge of the variations in drug response between individual patients, based upon disease, or other innate characteristics
• Demonstrate knowledge of the effect of age on pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and responses to therapy, with an emphasis on geriatric patients
• Develop an adequate basis of knowledge in pharmacology
• Develop a knowledge of drug classes and mechanisms into which additional drugs can be incorporated, compared and contrasted as new drugs are developed
• Demonstrate the ability to recognise and understand the physicochemical and physiological factors that affect the absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of drugs, and how these relate to pharmacokinetics
• Demonstrate the ability to interpret dose-response relationships for both desired and undesired drug effects
• Demonstrate an understanding of drug-receptor interactions

Module 18 – Clinical Oncology

This module includes consideration of histology and ultrastructure, disordered cell growth, degeneration, calcification, neoplasia, medical and surgical oncology, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy.  Completion of this module will require 40-50 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

• Develop knowledge of the basic sciences as they relate to the understanding of cancer and its treatment including the principles of growth kinetics, molecular biology, pharmacology, endocrinology, immunology, biochemistry and radiobiology
• Develop knowledge of the natural history of cancer, including risk factors, genetic predisposition, growth and dissemination patterns and prognostic variables
• Apply and interpret appropriate diagnostic tools to evaluate the patient with cancer, including but not limited to laboratory tests, imaging modalities and endoscopy
• Develop knowledge of staging of different tumours using the TNM (tumour, node, metastasis) staging system, or other relevant classification system, and applicable prognostic indices
• Develop knowledge of mechanisms of action, indications, complications, and expected outcomes of different therapeutic modalities including chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biologic therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplantation, supportive care medications, radiation therapy, surgery alone or in combined-modality treatment and radiopharmaceuticals for common cancers
• Describe the principles of the administration of systemic therapies
• Describe screening and preventive methods for different cancers
• Develop knowledge of paraneoplastic syndromes
• Develop knowledge of emergencies arising from cancers, or from the systemic therapy administered
• Describe management of cancers arising in special populations, including but not limited to immunosuppressed hosts, pregnant women, geriatric groups, adolescents and young adults, and patients in remote geographic locations
• Develop knowledge of supportive and palliative care of the patient with cancer
• Describe the impact of therapeutic interventions including acute, sub-acute, long-term and late toxicities and adverse outcomes
• Develop knowledge of issues related to cancer survivorship, including but not limited to physical, psychological, emotional, vocational, sexual, financial, lifestyle and fertility issues

Module 19 – Clinical Immunology

This module includes consideration of lymph nodes and lymphatics, immunology, spleen and reticulo-endothelial system and immune deficiency disorders.  Completion of this module will require 40-50 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

• Normal structure, function and development of the immune system
• Principles of genetic inheritance
• Common and serious conditions relating to the function of the immune system: in particular primary immune deficiency syndromes
• Commonly used screening and diagnostic investigations of the immune system
• Therapeutic interventions applicable in the above conditions
• Clinical skills associated with the immune and lymphatic systems

Module 20 – Critical Care / Anaesthesia / Emergency Medicine

This module includes consideration of general, regional and local anaesthesia and analgesia, consciousness, pre- and post-operative care, perioperative pain relief and complications, trauma, emergency medicine and intensive care.  Completion of this module will require 80-100 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

A) CRITICAL CARE

• Critical care for patients with spinal cord injury and closed head injury.
• Describe the principles of peri-operative management of other common neurosurgical conditions including ischaemic strokes, intracerebral haemorrhage, aneurysm, AV malformation, and brain tumour
• Describe the principles of acute haemodynamic management for common ICU problems including dysrhythmias, haemorrhagic shock, septic shock, myocardial ischaemia, idiopathic cardiomyopathy, neurogenic shock, and hypertensive crisis
• Describe the principles and practice of emergency airway management including intubations using direct laryngoscopy, fibreoptic bronchoscopy, or other “awake” techniques.
• Discuss the indications for and techniques of fibreoptic bronchoscopy for sampling bronchioalveolar lavage and to open collapsed lung segments
• Discuss the pathophysiology and management of acute lung injury, respiratory failure and ARDS, ventilator associated pneumonia, aspiration pneumonia and pulmonary contusions
• Discuss the application of simple and advanced ventilation techniques
• Discuss the principles of early enteral feeding versus total parenteral nutrition, as well as gut dysmotility problems and pancreatitis
• Describe the pathophysiology of liver failure, current and newer therapies for liver failure
• Describe the pathophysiology of renal insufficiency and failure.
• Understand the principles of complex dialysis strategies including the benefits of continuous veno-veno haemodialysis (CVVHD) versus intermittent haemodialysis
• Discuss the principles of RBC and blood factor replacement strategies, including supplementation of erythropoietin and other tools to minimise transfusion therapy
• Describe the pathophysiology of thrombosis, and modern approach to DVT prophylaxis, early recognition and treatment of pulmonary embolism.
• Describe the physiology of the coagulation system, and the pathophysiology of DIC
• Discuss the principles of infectious diseases, immune system dysfunction, and antibiotic usage
• Describe the pathophysiology of multi-system organ failure
• Describe the mechanisms of trauma and burn injury

B) ANAESTHESIA

• Describe the principles of clinical preoperative assessment, including risk assessment and comprehensive anaesthetic planning
• Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of monitoring systems in the clinical practice of anaesthesia including ECG, pulse oximetry, non-invasive and invasive blood pressure monitoring, gas analysis, temperature monitoring and peripheral nerve stimulation
• Discuss the basic components of anaesthesia (analgesia, amnesia, areflexia, unconsciousness, and muscle relaxation / immobility) and the appropriate clinical application of these modalities
• Demonstrate a good understanding of the equipment, indications, limitations and contraindications for regional anaesthesia
• Discuss the pharmacology of commonly used drugs in the perioperative period, as well as drugs used during resuscitation, and in the management of patients with common comorbidities, including knowledge of common drug interactions

C) EMERGENCY MEDICINE

• List the common acute and chronic disease processes frequently presenting in the emergency department
• Describe the pathophysiology of these diseases
• Describe the usual therapeutic measures used to treat these diseases
• Recognise disease processes that require urgent/emergent medical or surgical intervention
• Be able to describe the ACLS and ATLS protocols for patient intervention

Module 21 – General Practice / Public Health

This module includes consideration of community, family and hospital medicine, general practice, demography, statistics, public health, informatics, social and preventative medicine, forensic and legal medicine, health economics and ethics.  Completion of this module will require 80-100 hours of study.

Specific learning topics and content include:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical features and management of (a) common, and (b) serious / important presentations in general practice.
• Demonstrate competency in the clinical skills required to diagnose and manage patient presentations in general practice (i.e. communication skills, history taking, physical examination, ordering and interpreting relevant office and laboratory investigations, and performing minor office procedures).
• Demonstrate competency in clinical reasoning and the ability to formulate a diagnosis (and/or differential diagnosis) and problem list, for patients presenting in general practice.
• Demonstrate competency in developing management plans with patients and carers presenting in general practice.
• Demonstrate an understanding of factors influencing a patient’s experience of illness and health (e.g. age, gender, socioeconomic status, physical, psychosocial, cultural, environmental, genetic).
• Demonstrate competency in recognising and appropriately negotiating relevant ethical and professional issues which arise in clinical and collegial/professional encounters
• Demonstrate competency in incorporating prevention and health promotion into clinical encounters where appropriate.
• Demonstrate competency in incorporating evidence based medicine into clinical encounters where appropriate (e.g. to be able to rapidly identify valid primary evidence on the core clinical questions of frequency, risk, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and apply this knowledge to relevant observed problems in general practice).
• Demonstrate a sound understanding of the role and responsibilities of general practitioners in the Australian health care system