MY ELECTIVE
The Elective Module is provided to Stellenbosch medical students at the end of their fourth year, with the aim of both personal and professional enrichment through experience within a field of their choice. Recognising that the field of Integrative Medicine is relatively new in South Africa and not part of our set curriculum, I decided to use this opportunity to explore an intriguing new world. Little did I know, the exciting new world I would discover.
PROFILE OF A STELLENBOSCH DOCTOR
Graduate Attributes
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Graduate attributes are characteristics and skill sets outlined by the university for students to strive toward during their time of study. The aim being for graduates to walk away not only with technical expertise but as well rounded individuals, dynamic professionals and engaged citizens able to contribute to the greater community.
WHAT IS SASIM?
South African Society of Integrative Medicine
SASIM is an association of medical, allied and associated practitioners who either practice or have an interest in integrative medicine. Membership provides connection to like-minded colleagues and a network of support.
As public demand for Integrative Medicine increases, the lines become increasingly blurred between Conventional and Complimentary Medicine. Definitions of practice scope are broadening as more and more doctors include integrative approaches in their practice. SASIM was formed in an attempt to avoid practitioners falling into a so-called 'no man's land'
Southern African Congress of Integrative Medicine
Kick-starting the first weekend of my elective, I had the opportunity of attending the Southern African Congress of Integrative Medicine. Graced with both local and international speakers, it was an incredible opportunity to learn from some of the highly revered and respected practitioners in the field. It was a wonderful and informative introduction to this new field of medicine.Â
While the specialty is evidently still in its infancy in South Africa, it has clearly developed much further in countries such as USA and UK.