Dr Debbie Norval gives a fresh perspective on the Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Medicine Society of South Africa’s (AAMSSA) journal club initiative for aesthetic practitioners. This program is designed to provide doctors with a platform for sharing research, case studies, and challenges in aesthetic and functional medicine. For patients, these journal clubs signify the commitment of their doctors to ongoing education and the pursuit of evidence-based practices.
The Enduring Value of Journal Clubs
Since the founding of the first formal journal club by Sir William Osler in 1875, journal clubs have become invaluable in medical education, particularly for postgraduates. They provide a structured setting for discussing recent research, assessing clinical applications, and supporting evidence-based patient care.
Today, journal clubs are a common educational tool across various medical disciplines, with their relevance continuing to grow in the fast-evolving field of aesthetic medicine.
Staying Current in Aesthetic Medicine
The sheer volume of medical literature, especially in aesthetics, is overwhelming. It’s estimated that clinicians would need over 600 hours each month to stay fully updated.
Given this challenge, journal clubs allow doctors to engage with the latest developments and maintain a commitment to evidence-based medicine without becoming overwhelmed by the volume of research.
The AAMSSA Journal Club Initiative
The Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Medicine Society of South Africa (AAMSSA) has journal clubs nationwide for aesthetic practitioners, with the goal of establishing several small groups in all main centres.
These are an academic forum based on sharing journal articles and current research in aesthetic and functional medicine. It is also a safe space to share case studies, challenges and complications while providing a system of mutual support for colleagues working in the field.
The journal clubs are additionally CPD accredited through AAMSSA and are independent of any sponsorship, product or company. These clubs maintain a small, interactive format (under 12 members) to facilitate meaningful discussions.
Participation is open exclusively to AAMSSA members, with established groups currently nationwide.
Benefits of Journal Clubs for Aesthetic Practitioners
Journal clubs provide structured time for peer discussions and knowledge exchange, fostering evidence-based decision-making and critical thinking.
Additionally, they offer a mentoring platform, enhancing the confidence and skills of practitioners new to the field. Some key objectives of successful journal clubs include:
- Disseminating new medical insights and research findings
- Improving critical appraisal and clinical decision-making skills
- Fostering lifelong learning and evidence-based practices
- Enhancing peer-to-peer learning and discussion in small, interactive settings
- Supporting practice-based learning that translates into patient care improvements
Journal Club Formats
Various formats exist for journal clubs, from traditional article critiques to problem-based and case study-focused discussions. In line with the latest recommendations, AAMSSA’s journal clubs prioritise case studies and practical applications over biostatistics, enhancing clinical relevance.
Each session is led by a designated leader, with discussions extending to practical demonstrations when applicable.
Ongoing Support Through WhatsApp Groups
AAMSSA journal club members benefit from a dedicated WhatsApp group where they can exchange advice, experiences, and daily challenges. This informal support network is especially valuable for managing complications and fostering a strong community of aesthetic practitioners.
Challenges and Practical Considerations
While journal clubs require minimal resources, time remains a significant barrier for busy practitioners. Limiting each group to around 12 members enhances interaction and manageability.
A Personal Perspective
Founded in 2015, the Johannesburg Journal Club started with four members and now includes 16 practitioners, ranging from dermatologists to aesthetic doctors with varied levels of experience. The collaboration and knowledge-sharing fostered by this group have proven invaluable, with a commitment to evidence-based care at the forefront. Importantly, the club operates independently of commercial influence, ensuring that patient care remains the priority.
Conclusion
Journal clubs are a crucial element of continuing medical education, providing aesthetic practitioners with an opportunity to refine their knowledge and skills in a peer-supported environment. For doctors, these clubs promote evidence-based practices that positively impact patient outcomes.
Doctors interested in joining or establishing a journal club can reach out to AAMSSA for guidance and support www.aestheticdoctors.co.za
Contact for AAMSSA Journal Clubs
Karen Nel at AAMSSA
Email: info@aestheticdoctors.co.za
Tel: +27 83 458 5953
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MBBCh (Rand) Dip Pall Med (cUK) M Phil Pall Med (UCT) Adv Dip Aesthetic Med (FPD)
Dr Debbie Norval graduated as a medical doctor from the University of the Witwatersrand, in 1991. Post graduate training includes a Diploma in Palliative Medicine through the University of Wales, Masters of Philosophy from the University of Cape Town, an Advanced Diploma in Aesthetic Medicine through the Foundation for Professional Development and a City and Guilds Diploma in Adult Teaching and Training.
Dr Norval is the convenor of the Johannesburg Aesthetic Doctors Journal Club and sits on the scientific committee of the Aesthetic Medicine Congress of South Africa (AMCSA). She is the Past President of the Aesthetic and Anti-Aging Medicine Society of South Africa (AAMSSA) and serves on the International Advisory Board of CMAC (Complications in Medical Aesthetics Collaborative).
“Dr Debbie Norval Aesthetics” is a busy clinical practice in Parktown North, Johannesburg.
Please note Dr Debbie is not taking on new patients at this time.
- Dr Debbie Norvalhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/dr-debbie-norval
- Dr Debbie Norvalhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/dr-debbie-norval
- Dr Debbie Norvalhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/dr-debbie-norval
- Dr Debbie Norvalhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/dr-debbie-norval
