Applied Clinical Theory and Skills 6 represents the final unit of study in the VU Osteopathy program. The unit is intended to provide inspiration for the burgeoning professional identities of students, as they prepare for entry to the Australian healthcare system. Students develop an understanding of the operational requirements and important aspects of business management relevant to osteopathic practice. Students have an opportunity to refine their manual therapy skills and patient management strategies for common presentations in osteopathic practice. Students will formulate a professional development plan, which not only encompasses their graduate year, but also incorporates elements of lifelong learning and ethical practice as an osteopath within the Australian healthcare system

Unit details

Study level:
Postgraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
HMO7006

Prerequisites

HMO7005 - Applied Clinical Theory and Skills 5

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Commentate on the role of evidence-informed osteopathic interventions for targeted issues relevant to manual therapy;  
  2. Evaluate self-preparedness in relationship to the operational requirements of osteopathic practice, including procedures for risk assessment; responding to adverse events; and compliance with regulatory policies;  
  3. Critically reflect on professional development as an osteopath, identifying personal knowledge and skill gaps and designing strategies for future learning; and  
  4. Formulate a plan for the transition to professional practice.  

Assessment

In the opening assessment, students pitch an idea for a commentary article relevant to their future careers as healthcare professionals. Students develop this article during the unit, which is intended to be a timely, evidence-based analysis of their selected issue. In the business readiness assignment, students undertake an analysis of their personal brand as clinical service providers. In this assessment, students reflect upon their strengths and skill gaps; and demonstrate knowledge of the operational and regulatory requirements of practice, including compliance with the OBA Codes of Conduct. In a report, students build on this reflection in their Transition to Practice plan, where they detail their transition to professional practice and strategies for future learning.
Assessment type Description Grade
Exercise Article Pitch (300 words) 10%
Assignment Business Readiness Analysis (1000 words) 30%
Report Transition to practice plan (1250 words) 35%
Assignment Professional Practice Article (700 words) 25%
To gain an overall pass in this unit, students must attend 80% of all practical classes for essential skill development as per AOAC expectations.

Where to next?

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.

VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.