Dr Iain Bell
Postgraduate Diploma in Musculoskeletal Medicine (2010)
As a Doctor, my main clinical interest has always revolved around musculoskeletal medicine. Early in my career I completed a post graduate diploma in sports medicine, but quickly found myself asking 'why?' particularly in relation to more complex musculoskeletal problems.
The papers in Musculoskeletal Medicine through the University of Otago provided the perspective I was looking for and have provided an approach to musculoskeletal problems that I am able to apply almost daily in clinical practice.
I found the tutors approachable and responsive, the online resources fantastic, and content and readings up to date and relevant. Distance learning inevitably requires time and energy, but the flexibility of the course and understanding of the teaching and administrative staff meant that I managed to complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Musculoskeletal Medicine while working full time, and with a young family.
My work over the years has been diverse, and has included work in Primary Care, Pain Management, service with the New Zealand Defence Force in NZ and overseas, and as an advisor and assessor for ACC. The skills and knowledge I have learned through the Diploma in MSM have been directly relevant, and enabled me to work in all of these environments more confidently.
I am now studying towards a MHealSc (Pain), and am training further in musculoskeletal medicine. The Diploma has provided a solid foundation, and I highly recommend it to all Health Professionals that deal with musculoskeletal problems.
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