SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Emergency Medical Care 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97432  Diploma in Emergency Medical Care 
ORIGINATOR
Netcare Education (Pty) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 240)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Preventive Health 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  240  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2032-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to enable qualified and trained Emergency Care Technicians (ECTs) to render professional health and emergency care services to the community in an efficient and effective manner. Upon qualifying the learner will be able to:
  • Communicate and interact with colleagues and other role players in an ethical, legal and professional fashion.
  • Understand the South African Health Care system including the role and placement of the emergency services within the broader health sector.
  • Apply the principles of occupational health and wellness including the identification and management of stress.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of human anatomy relevant to ECTs.
  • Operate equipment and resources that are required to render emergency care and rescue within the ECT scope of practice.

    Rationale:
    The Diploma in Emergency and Medical Care qualification is designed to provide foundational knowledge, skills and insight to learners who want to pursue, and those who need to further their personal and professional career in emergency care. This qualification enables learners to become professional and competent Emergency Care Technicians (ECT). An ECT is a professional responsible for providing emergency ambulance services, including emergency care and transportation to hospital. On the completion of this qualification, learners will be able to register as Emergency Care Technicians. In this regard, the society will be served by competent ECTs, this will increase their chances of survival and recovery.

    The Minister of Higher Education in the green paper acknowledged a criticism of the old Higher Education Qualifications Framework (HEQF) in that there was an absence of a two-year Diploma. Diplomas such as this are also strongly advocated by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and its Professional Boards. The introduction of this two-year Mid-level worker Diploma in Emergency Medical Care may be seen as a response to changed requirements at a national level with regards to Higher Education qualifications for the health sector.

    In support of the imperatives of the National Department of Health, the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), which is both the Education and Training Quality Assurer (ETQA) and the legislated registering body for health professionals, reviewed the full range of health care qualifications with a view to ensuring their compliance with national requirements.

    As a result of this review the emergency care qualifications were redesigned and this led to the creation of the two-year 240 Credit Diploma in Emergency Medical Care.

    Given the great need for, and the scarcity of, well qualified emergency care workers in South Africa, the offering of this qualification should play a crucial role in raising the standards in the field of emergency medical care in the country. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    Recognition of prior learning (RPL) will take place in the context of the institution's RPL Policy and Procedure. Previous clinical learning experience will be considered for RPL. RPL will be managed on an individual basis and the applicants will need to submit a portfolio of evidence. All RPL submissions will be reviewed by the RPL committee and learners will have an opportunity to appeal the outcome of the RPL process.

    The minimum entry requirement for admission to the Diploma in Emergency and Medical Care is:
  • Senior Certificate (SC).
    Or,
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) passed with Diploma studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory and elective modules at NQF Levels 5 and 6 totalling 252 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules:
    NQF Level 5, 126 Credits.
  • Basic Sciences in Physics, 6 Credits.
  • Basic Sciences in Chemistry, 6 Credits.
  • Anatomy, 12 Credits.
  • Physiology, 12 Credits.
  • Foundations of Professional Practice, 12 Credits.
  • End User Computing I, 6 Credits.
  • Mental Health and Wellness, 6 Credits.
  • Emergency Medical Care I Theory, 24 Credits.
  • Emergency Medical Care I Practical, 12 Credits.
  • Clinical Practice I, 30 Credits.

    NQF Level 6, 126 Credits:
  • Primary Health Care, 6 Credits.
  • Clinical Practice II, 36 Credits.
  • Emergency Medical Care II Theory, 36 Credits.
  • Emergency Medical Care II Practical, 12 Credits.
  • Specialized Transport in Theory, 24 Credits.
  • Specialized Transport in Practical, 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Communicate and interact with colleagues and other role players in an ethical, legal and professional fashion.
    2. Understand the South African Health Care system including the role and placement of the emergency services within the broader health sector.
    3. Apply the principles of occupational health and wellness including the identification and management of stress.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of human anatomy relevant to Emergency Care Technicians.
    5. Operate equipment and resources required to render emergency care and rescue within the Emergency Care Technicians scope of practice. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Effective, clear, direct and accurate communication with patients, colleagues is demonstrated and appropriate media and terminology is used.
  • Dignified interactions with stakeholders are undertaken with due sensitivity to ethnic, cultural, linguistic, religious and gender diversity.
  • Professional relationships are characterised by mutual respect, cooperation, accountability, rapport and effective communication.
  • Ethical principles of beneficence, autonomy and justice, truth telling, promise keeping and confidentiality are correctly applied in all contexts.
  • Confidentiality is maintained in line with the medical ethical practices.
  • The need to override the principle of confidentiality when superseded by legal authority is correctly explained and applied in line with accepted protocols.
  • Correct explanations of the legal framework within which an emergency service provider and/or practitioner operates are provided.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • The role, function, challenges, goals and strategies of the National Department of Health are correctly described and discussed.
  • The different tiers and levels of health care delivery in South Africa are correctly described.
  • The Emergency and Medical Services (EMS) is correctly described in terms of structure, funding, role and function, both within the public and private areas.
  • Explanations are correctly provided of the inter-dependence and inter-relationships occurring between EMS and other Allied Health Care structures.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • The need for mental wellness on the part of the emergency care provider is correctly explained by highlighting its role and importance, with particular reference to the impact on job effectiveness.
  • Techniques are correctly described to identify and manage own stress and stressful situations.
  • Personal stress disorders and stress factors are correctly identified based on an accurate reading of symptoms and patterns.
  • Methods for maintaining personal safety are correctly identified and demonstrated through appropriate risk assessment, scene assessment, decision making and option taking.
  • Maintain ones physical and mental fitness to operate safely and effectively in an emergency care environment is demonstrated.
  • Methods for obtaining and maintaining operational fitness are identified and described in terms of lifestyle, diet and exercise techniques, highlighting the impact on self and job effectiveness.
  • The physical demands of emergency care are correctly described in terms of bio kinetic principles, with particular reference to techniques for lifting and carrying heavy objects.
  • Appropriate levels of Physical Fitness and proficiency in swimming are demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • The thorax is correctly explained in terms of its composition, general form, spatial orientation, structures and position of the cavities.
  • Explanations of the normal abdominal anatomy are correctly explained and an ability to integrate surface topographical and clinical anatomy of the abdomen to patient assessment and care is demonstrated.
  • The pelvis is correctly explained in terms of its structure and contents, with particular attention to gender.
  • The structures of the lower and upper extremity and back are correctly explained in terms of composition and relative position.
  • The structures of the head and neck are correctly explained in terms of composition and relative position.
  • The anatomical differences between adults and children structures are correctly described according to theoretical study.
  • The anatomical adaptations to pregnancy are correctly explained in line with prevailing theories.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Emergency vehicles are correctly identified according to specific tasks within the emergency care environment.
  • Emergency vehicle is set up ergonomically and maintained in a state of constant readiness.
  • Vehicle problems are identified and reported according to local operational procedures.
  • Emergency equipment is correctly checked with required regularity and is maintained in a clean, disinfected and ready state at all times as per local procedures.
  • Emergency equipment is correctly identified and described in terms of indications, contra-indications, precautions, complications, use and, where applicable, assembly.
  • Vehicles are operated with due respect for other road users and in compliance with the Road Traffic Act and prevailing road conditions.
  • Correct procedures relating to registration, modification and marking of emergency service vehicles are explained as per the regulations.
  • Relevant legislation is described as it relates to emergency vehicles responding to incidents, and transporting patients and or pressure cylinders.
  • Navigation is carried out effectively using appropriate navigational tools.
  • Procedures to be followed should a vehicle become involved in an accident are explained and or demonstrated in line with relevant legislation.
  • Communication devices are used in accordance with the established protocols to ensure effective communication.
  • A variety of communication devices are compared and their fundamental components, principles of operation, advantages and disadvantages are identified.
  • Emergency care equipment relating to the care of ill or injured patients is explained in terms of function, storage, maintenance and use.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated assessment strategies across related modules will be developed. Learners will also be assessed in simulated work environments.

    Formative Assessment:
    Learning and assessment are integrated. The scheme of work includes tests and assignments, practical work and competency evaluation of practical skills. The process is continuous and focuses on smaller sections of the work in limited number of outcomes.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative assessments will evaluate the learners' abilities to manage and integrate a larger body of knowledge and to achieve the stated outcomes. The summative assessment also focuses on the learners' ability to integrate knowledge and skills in the particular area of specialisation.

    Summative assessments include both theoretical and practical assessment. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Saskatchewan University:
    The Saskatchewan University in Canada offers a two-year Diploma in Advanced Care Paramedic. This qualification is designed to provide learners with knowledge and skills to enable them to administer a great range of medications and perform life saving interventions. Learners are equipped with advanced medical care skills for their expected roles in traditional emergency medical services, collaborative medical centres, and in industrial and community settings. Advanced training is offered in recognising and managing medical and trauma emergencies. This qualification is fully accredited by the Canadian Medical Association and its roles are outlined in the National Occupation Competency Profiles for the Paramedic Practitioner of Canada.

    University College Dublin:
    The University College Dublin in Ireland offers a two-year Diploma in Emergency Medical Services. This qualification provides learners with training necessary for emergency medical care providers to become safe, competent and effective practitioners in the pre-hospital environment. It also provides sound theoretical base to support the learner's competencies in clinical decision making, patient assessment, clinical care and professional practice, including the core knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to manage medical and trauma emergencies in both adults and children in the pre-hospital phase of care.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification compares favourably with both Diplomas offered by the Saskatchewan University and the University College Dublin. All qualifications are focussed on providing learners with skills to handle emergency matters effectively and with caution. Learners are trained to handle matters such as trauma and to be able to perform lifesaving interventions. Both qualifications are registered with their respective professional bodies within their countries. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification articulates both horizontally and vertically.

    Horizontal:
  • Diploma in Nursing Sciences, at NQF Level 6

    Vertical:
  • Bachelor of Emergency Medical Care, at NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Netcare Education (Pty) Ltd - Durban (previously known as Netcare Hospital Management (Pty) Ltd) 
    2. Netcare Education (Pty) Ltd - Johannesburg (previously known as Netcare Hospital Management (Pty) Ltd) 
    3. Netcare Education (Pty) Ltd - Midrand (previously known as Netcare Hospital Management (Pty) Ltd) 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.