The Master Of Medicine (Mmed) Component Of Specialization, Have We Addressed The Challenges?

Background: Since its inception by the health professions council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a mandatory requirement in 2011, conducting research has presented multiple challenges for clinical specialist trainees. Objective: We aim to evaluate the literature looking at challenges encountered by both the specialist trainees and research supervisors. Data source: PubMed, SciELo SA, Google scholar and ERIC were searched. References of included articles were also evaluated for relevant articles. Data extraction: Data extraction was performed by all 3 authors. The databases were searched from inception to the present day, for only English language articles and those that reported on challenges. Conclusion: Many challenges still exist for both student and supervisor. Co-supervision should be normalised and a significant part of the solution is reinforcing already existing protocols. Recommendations: There is no one size fit all for all the academic institutions but standardized protocols for each centre are encouraged. Co-supervision is strongly encouraged.