Welcome to the Department of Family Medicine
In the Department of Family Medicine, we are dedicated to a holistic, patient-oriented approach to medical training. We prepare medical doctors to deliver high-quality primary healthcare in both the public and private health sectors of South Africa. Our department is actively involved in training at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, ensuring that future doctors are equipped with the skills, knowledge and attitude needed in this discipline. We take pride in our holistic patient-cantered approach to patient care and acting as advocates for our patients.
Our Philosophy
We believe in a holistic, patient-oriented approach. Future general practitioners and primary healthcare doctors should be advocates for their patients, equipped with a diverse range of skills.
We develop key skills in:
- counselling;
- effective communication;
- ethical behaviour; and
- interpersonal relations and teamwork
Our Goals
Safe First-Contact Physicians
We train doctors to be safe first-contact physicians, capable of emergency care and treatment. Doctors working in rural areas should have the practical clinical skills to perform surgical, obstetrical, and emergency procedures at a high standard.
Training and Professional Development of Doctors
Our overarching goal is the training and professional development of doctors who can function competently in any global healthcare setting. We emphasise evidence-based medicine, practice-based research, and continuous professional development. We embrace the challenge of contributing to an equitable and affordable healthcare system in South Africa.
World-Class Department of Family Medicine
We strive to provide high-quality, holistic primary healthcare services, comprehensive training for healthcare professionals, and research-driven solutions to promote a healthy and self-reliant community in the Free State and beyond.
Our Mission
Aligned with the mission of the University of the Free State, the Faculty of Health Sciences, and the School of Clinical Medicine, our mission is to:
- Provide excellent, relevant, and cost-effective training in Family Medicine at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including continuous professional development for practicing family physicians and primary health care workers.
- Undertake, support, and promote active research in Family Medicine to advance knowledge and best practices.
- Provide and develop Family Medicine-based services in line with primary healthcare principles, serving the community supported by the academic hospital complex in Bloemfontein.
Our Objectives
Undergraduate Training
- Introduce the medical student to the principles of Family Medicine as embodied in clinical family practice, family medicine, and practice management;
- Familiarise students with ethical conduct and medical ethics. Guide students in accepting a holistic approach to patient care. Provide experience in the clinical management and treatment of general ailments and emergencies.
- Familiarise students with the four basic levels of clinical treatment, namely: furtherance, preventative, curative, rehabilitative medicine.
Postgraduate Training
- Provide family practitioners with career-based training through developing cognitive, perceptive, and effective skills essential for delivering primary healthcare.
Services
- Deliver extensive, community-based healthcare in the field of Family Medicine and Primary Care.
- Coordinate and supervise medical services in the district health complex of area DC 17 in the Free State, ensuring comprehensive care in line with primary healthcare principles.
- Serve as gatekeepers to secondary and tertiary levels of care
Research
- Conduct relevant research to enhance Family Medicine practices, improve service delivery, and reduce disease incidence in primary care.
If you require any further information or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the Department of Family Medicine directly.