Foundations of Medicine

Course overview

Course learning outcomes

• Describe the organisation of the human body and the structure and function of the major organ systems.
• Explain, at a foundational level, the molecular and cellular basis of health and disease and the core processes which contribute to responding to changes in internal and external environments.
• Formulate mechanistic hypotheses by interpreting key data in given scenarios.
• Conduct medical interviews with simulated patients, using a defined framework for history taking, and display appropriate rapport and empathy
• Perform limited physical examinations of designated body systems in simulated patients in a professional manner.
• Describe and reflect on the ethical principles which form the basis of the doctor-patient relationship: beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, rights to autonomy, confidentiality and informed consent
• Describe expectations of a health professional and demonstrate professional capabilities and behaviours including respect for colleagues, staff and tutors and acknowledge the Indigenous peoples as traditional custodians.
• Investigate self-care resources and reflect on how these can assist self and peers in maintaining wellbeing
• Describe the structure of the Australian health system, the key concepts in public health and its role in the health of a population
• Identify examples of the social determinants that can affect the health of individuals, families, communities and populations
• Demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of Indigenous peoples’ histories, cultures, identities and belief systems
• Identify the connections between history and the ongoing impacts of colonisation on Indigenous health outcomes
• Recognise the important role played by research in the generation of knowledge for health and medicine
• Demonstrate foundational research skills in locating, interpreting and referencing appropriate information relevant to health and medical sciences