Supervising Committee

Specialist Advisory Committee in Infectious Diseases (SAC).

Definition of Specialty

Infectious diseases physicians have specialised training in clinical, laboratory and public health aspects of infectious disease medicine and microbiology.

General Principles of Training

1. Advanced training in adult and paediatric infectious diseases consists of a structured three-year program. The prime aim is to train a clinician excellent in the management of patients with infectious diseases.
   
2. At least two years' experience in clinical infectious diseases is required. For paediatric trainees, this infectious diseases experience should be primarily with paediatric patients. The third (elective) year of training should be in an area relevant to infectious diseases. A period of laboratory training is required during the third year training period (see below).
   
3. Candidates should become conversant with the wide spectrum of infectious diseases, including current literature and research activities, but are not expected to be expert in all areas. Training encompasses diagnosis investigation and management of patients with infectious diseases. Trainees will have an understanding of relevant areas of microbiology, immunology, epidemiology, prevention and public health aspects of infectious diseases.
   
4. It is strongly recommended that training be undertaken at more than one institution, to acquire sufficient breadth of exposure and experience.
   
5. Advanced trainees transferring to the SAC will be required to meet at least the requirements for core clinical and laboratory training.
   
6. Paediatric trainees should be aware of the mandatory training requirements outlined in the handbook Requirements for Paediatric Physician Training .

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