How to Become A Rheumatologist In South Africa

Rheumatologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating disorders that affect the joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones.

Why would you see a rheumatologist?

Rheumatologists treat complex diseases that are often difficult to diagnose. If you experience pain or other symptoms and your primary care provider can’t offer assistance or relief, a rheumatologist may be able to give you a better idea about the condition causing your symptoms.

Who needs to see a rheumatologist?

A GP may recommend a referral for you to a rheumatologist when: they have made a diagnosis of or suspect that you have an inflammatory musculoskeletal condition. you have painful, swollen, stiff joints that improved after treatment but returned when you stopped taking medication. you have unusual test results.

How often do I need to see my rheumatologist?

Immediately after diagnosis, you will likely see your doctor more regularly–perhaps every few months or even more often. Once you’ve found a treatment that works for you and your symptoms have been under control for a while, you might see your rheumatologist less frequently.

Below are steps to Become A Rheumatologist In South Africa

Earn a bachelor’s degree. 

Although the minimum requirement for a student to gain acceptance into medical school is three years of education at the college or university level, the majority of medical students tend to possess an undergraduate or advanced degree.

Although not a requirement, undergraduates may pursue a pre-med program which consists of a curriculum that is heavier on the sciences, like physics, biology, and inorganic and organic chemistry.

Apply to medical school.

 Students with an interest in becoming a rheumatologist must apply to an accredited medical school to obtain a doctor of medicine (M.D.) or doctor of osteopathy (D.O.) degree.

The admissions process is competitive and takes into account a variety of factors during their evaluation of applicants. The majority of medical schools require the submission of Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) scores with an application.

This test is typically taken during an undergrad’s junior or senior year, and assesses a student’s aptitude as it relates to science, critical thinking, problem solving skills, and the ability to reason.

Complete a four-year medical school program. 

During the first two years of medical school, aspiring rheumatologists take courses such as anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology. From psychiatry to internal medicine, the remaining two years of medical school are spent experiencing multiple specialties through clinical experiences.

During this time, students learn how to care for patients within real medical settings (like hospitals and clinics) while under the supervision of seasoned medical staff.

Throughout their time at medical school, clinical rotations and exposure to mentors help students decide on which area of medicine he or she would like to concentrate on.

Complete a residency in general internal medicine or pediatrics. 

Since rheumatology is a sub-specialty of internal medicine, medical school graduates must fulfil all of the requirements to become an internist. An internal medicine residency takes at least three

Obtain a license.

Upon completion of residency training, the physicians are now referred to as internal medicine doctors or a pediatrician. In the South African, it is a requirement for all doctors to obtain a license in order to practice medicine in a specific state.

Complete fellowship training in rheumatology.

 To become a rheumatologist, physicians must pursue an additional 2-3 years of training related to rheumatology.

CAREER PATH

The primary work environments of a rheumatologist are found within a medical office or clinic, but these specialists also provide care in many different healthcare settings – from a private physician-owned practice to outpatient clinics.

Rheumatologists may also work out of inpatient units that provide medical, surgical, rehabilitation and transitional care.  Universities, colleges, and pharmaceutical companies also hire rheumatologists to conduct research regarding the causes of rheumatic diseases and the development of alternative treatments.

Employers hiring rheumatologists typically seek the following qualities in a job candidate:

The ability to communicate information in layman terms to patients and/or their families.

Can subtly shift the decision-making role onto patients after providing the information necessary to make the best choice in treatment.

Is compassionate and warm towards patients, who often suffer from painful and debilitating conditions.

Possesses a ‘good bedside manner’ and has excellent listening skills.

Offers helpful tips and knows when to refer patients to other medical professionals, such as a counselor or occupational therapist.

Works well as part of a team, as rheumatologists often consult and collaborate with other health care providers associated with a patient.

To increase the chances of being hired and finding relevant job leads, joining a professional association or organization is highly recommended.

One of the leading resources and links to networking possibilities is the South African College of Rheumatology (ACR), which focuses on education, treatment and research related to the field.

Representing more than 9,000 rheumatology health professionals, additional membership benefits include research opportunities, fellowships, educational discounts, and access to the latest information through rheumatology-related publications.

Additionally, keeping abreast on the current issues and trends related to the management and treatment of rheumatic diseases is important for shaping a well-informed job candidate.

Subscribing to local publications, newsletters, and medical journals is highly recommended. The Rheumatologist is a newsmagazine that specifically caters to the field of rheumatology and serves more than 11,000 healthcare professionals.

The average earnings of a rheumatologist is cited as being R 3122944.82 , according to Medscape’s Compensation Report for Rheumatologists , which also identifies this specialty as falling below the middle among all other physicians.

How many years does it take to be a rheumatologist In South Africa?

What type of training is required? Rheumatologists receive years of education and training beyond college. After they earn a medical degree (four years of medical school), they complete a residency program in internal medicine or pediatrics. They have another two to three years in specialized rheumatology training.

Where can I study rheumatology in South Africa?

Rheumatology | University of Pretoria.

Are rheumatologists in demand In South Africa?

Over the next ten years, the demand for rheumatology services is expected to increase by 46%. It is expected that the number of practicing rheumatologists will only increase by 1.2%. With today’s modern treatments, rheumatologists are able to better care for their patients than ever before.

How many rheumatologists are there in South Africa?

North African countries, such as Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt, and South Africa have a relatively larger number of rheumatologists, although South Africa has only 85 adult and pediatric rheumatologists for nearly 56 million people.

How long does it take to become a rheumatologist in South Africa?

What kind of training do rheumatologists have? In South Africa, rheumatologists must first complete an MB ChB (six years followed by an internship of two years), then four years specializing to be a general physician and a further two years of training to become a rheumalogist.

What qualifications do you need to be a rheumatologist In South Africa?

Entry requirements. Prior to starting your specialty training you need to have completed a medical degree followed by the two-year foundation programme and then two or three years of core training.

Is rheumatology a good career?

Rheumatology is a good field for people who want to get to know their patients. I’ve been in practice long enough that I have cared for some patients for over a decade, and not every field gives you the opportunity to become such an important part of your patients’ lives.

How hard is it to get into rheumatology In South Africa?

The data show that acceptance rates for S.A graduates is 86% but for international medical graduates it’s about 50%. It is difficult to compare individuals between these groups, but we have to be careful to ensure eligible applicants don’t get overlooked.