The Doctor as a Scholar and a Scientist

Knowledge:

Graduates must have knowledge of:

the principles of good medical practice as set out by the Medical Council.
the clinical and basic sciences, behavioural and social sciences, and be able to integrate and critically evaluate evidence from all these sources to provide a firm foundation for medical practice.
biological variation, and have an understanding of scientific methods, including both the technical and ethical principles used when designing experiments.
the range of alternative and complementary therapies. The reason why some patients use them, and how these might affect other types of treatment that patients are receiving.
the issues and techniques involved in studying the effect of diseases on communities and individuals, including genetic, environmental and social causes of disease

Graduates must be able to :-

gain, assess, apply and integrate new knowledge and have the ability to adapt to changing circumstances throughout their professional life.
resource, evaluate and prioritise new information.
be aware of the psychological effect that illness can have on patients and their families. This is particularly important in relation to patients whose complaints are not easily explained as biological abnormalities or diseases. Exploring patients' fears and concerns can help the understanding of their condition and can facilitate their compliance with treatment plans.
apply the principles of good patient management

Appropriate professional attitudes require that the graduate complies with the following:-

be aware of issues such as alcohol and drug abuse, domestic violence and abuse of the vulnerable patient.