A.     Knowledge to be gained

1.      To understand the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management of endocrine and metabolic problems, including diabetes mellitus, with emphasis on the commonly seen by a specialist in the out-patient clinic setting.

2.      To be familiar with the clinical manifestations and principles of treatment of major endocrine emergencies, including decompensated diabetes mellitus, severe hypoglycemia, acute adrenal crisis, pituitary apoplexy, thyroid storm, and myxedema coma.

3.      To get familiar with the indications, principles, complications, and interpretation of endocrine functional tests, that include oral glucose tolerance test, thyroid function tests, dynamic testing of pituitary-adrenal function, immunoassays of various hormones, MRI of the pituitary, nuclear imaging of the thyroid, fine-needle aspiration of the thyroid, and bone mineral density studies.

B.      Skills to be acquired

1.      To have ability to take a good medical history and perform a careful and accurate physical examination.

2.      To be able to write concise, accurate and informative histories, physical examinations and progress notes.

3.      To be able to formulate comprehensive and accurate problem lists, differential diagnoses and plans of management.

4.      To be able to write concise, accurate, informative and helpful consultation notes, clearly outlining the recommendations and explaining their rationale.

5.      To be able to search efficiently and evaluate the medical literature, including print and electronic media, in order to find pertinent and accurate information about a patient or condition.

C.      Desirable behavior

1.      Able to interact with patients and families in a professionally appropriate manner.

2.      Able to learn by participation in ward rounds, teaching conferences and other educational activities.

3.      Willing and able to teach medical students.

4.      Willing and able to help the requesting physician in a consultative or co-management capacity, according to the needs of the situation.

5.      To be able to have a habit of considering the cost-effectiveness of diagnostic and treatment strategies.

6.      Able to appreciate social context of illness.

For Foreign Clinical Observer:

1.      Clinical observer from other countries will participate together with our 5^th and 6^th year medical students during the rotation period.

2.      Applicants need to be current medical students or graduates from a university or an equivalent institute in another country.

3.      All submitted application forms must be written in English or Chinese.

4.      Applicants need to provide health records and current immunization records in addition to proof of personal health/accident insurance with overseas coverage, or proof of national health insurance.