Parkinson’s disease masterclass
BMJ 2012; 345 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.e5604 (Published 01 September 2012) Cite this as: BMJ 2012;345:e5604
- Gopalakrishnan Deivasikamani, specialty trainee year 6, geriatric and general medicine
- gopi_doc{at}hotmail.com
The Parkinson’s disease masterclasses are run by the movement disorders section of the British Geriatrics Society. The classes aim to provide advanced training for senior healthcare professionals involved in treating patients with Parkinson’s disease and related disorders.
Who is it for?
Three types of masterclass are run by the British Geriatrics Society. The classic masterclass is for consultants, neurologists, final year specialty registrars, pharmacists, clinical fellows, clinical lecturers, and general practitioners. The registrar masterclass is for specialty trainees who are not in their final year, and the nurse masterclass is for Parkinson’s disease nurse specialists, nurse consultants, and community matrons.
When did you do it?
I took the registrar masterclass during the second year of specialty training in geriatric medicine.
Why did you do it?
I did the course to improve my clinical skills in the diagnosis and management of Parkinson’s disease and to understand and manage the non-motor complications of the disorder. I also wanted to learn about the complexities of Parkinson’s disease management and the differential diagnosis. I was keen to understand the relation between clinical management, research evidence, and the national service framework for older people.
Where does it take place?
The courses for 2012 are located around the country, with masterclasses being held in Leeds, Birmingham, and Cornwall. There is no fee, but a deposit of £250 is required to secure a place.
What does it involve?
The course aims to advance participants’ understanding of Parkinson’s disease and related movement disorders through taught sessions and mentorship. There are four days of lectures, discussions, group sessions, and interactive sessions, including sessions with patients. The course is run in two modules, so candidates are able to complete two days in one sitting and two days at another sitting.
A comprehensive overview of all issues in Parkinson’s disease is provided, such as falls, dementia, non-motor symptoms, drug management, use of apomorphine, and neuropsychiatric issues. There are also discussions about clinical cases, audit topics, research, and setting up a Parkinson’s service.
The candidates each have a designated mentor for support, queries, and projects. The course encourages interaction and discussion about various management issues among the candidates and tutors. There are evening meals, two of which are compulsory as they involve structured discussions.
Was it worth it?
Yes, definitely. It has improved my knowledge and understanding of Parkinson’s disease considerably and has enhanced my confidence in the management of the disorder, especially the use of dopamine agonists.
The course has also stimulated my interest in research and service development associated with Parkinson’s disease. It has served as a foundation for further audit projects in various trusts, leading to improvement in services. Overall it has given me a comprehensive overview of Parkinson’s disease and related disorders.
Top tips
The course is quite popular so plan ahead and book a place early
Interact with the participants as there is usually a wealth of information to be shared
Check with the organisers about travel arrangements
Further information
For further information contact Sarah-Jane Gillett, managing director of RED Publishing Ltd (sarah.gillett{at}redpublish.co.uk). More information about the masterclasses can be found on the RED Publishing website at www.redpublish.co.uk/courses/.
Footnotes
Competing interests: This course is supported by UCB Pharma and Parkinson’s UK through an educational grant. UCB Pharma has no editorial control over the content of the course.