Diploma Emergency Medicine

11/2-3 year programme 

A Diploma training programme in Emergency Medicine, which is modular and developmental, is offered as one component of a wider graduate programme in Emergency Medicine delivered by the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, St Augustine. The programme is eighteen (18) months and consists of eight (8) modules. Students must attend the monthly Emergency Medicine Grand Rounds, coordinated by a chief resident.

Teaching Methods 

Teaching will be conducted through the following methods:

a) Classroom sessions in eight (8) modules                          b) Bed side teaching

c) Grand rounds                                                                   d) Pod casts

e) Short courses for practical skills                                       f) Journal reviews

g) Scenario practice and mini conferences                            h) Clinic sub-specialty sessions

i)Course work assignments which include protocols, case reports and presentations

Assessment

Each module is assessed by 100% coursework, which is made up of a combination of case studies, tutorial presentations, assignments and problem based learning. The percentage that each of these contributes to the overall course mark varies, and is given in the detailed descriptions of each module that follows. Feedback is given from supervisors and residents on modules as well as mentors assigned to each student. Mock examinations, short examinations and regular appraisals are also completed.

Examinations 

Examinations consist of three parts:

a) Written (Multiple choice and Data interpretation)

b) Clinical (OSCE)

c) Orals

Additional Courses

Life Support’ management will be taught via courses already run in Trinidad, but not under the direct supervision of the Faculty of Medical Sciences. These would include:

a) The Advanced Paediatric Life Support Course (APLS) – offered by the Advanced Life Support Group (ALSG) in the United Kingdom and recognised by the UK Resuscitation Council.

b) Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) – offered by the Cardiac Life Support Training Group (CLSTG), a local non-profit organisation involved in resuscitation training. The ACLS course is accredited by the American Heart Association (AHA)

c) Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) – offered by the Society of Surgeons of Trinidad and Tobago and accredited by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma.

The above courses may be varied according to the specific needs and prior training and knowledge of candidates entering the programme. In addition, these courses must be completed before final examinations. Airway and Ultrasound courses (Basic and Advanced) are offered once a year for the candidates. These courses are mandatory and should be completed within the first two years of the programme.