GCFM Handbook Intake 27 2022 Updt 13012022

GRADUATE
CERTIFICATE
IN
FAMILY MEDICINE
Programme Handbook
(GCFM Intake 27, January 2022)
Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

Table of Contents
Item Content Pages
1. Introduction to the Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine

(GCFM) Programme 4-5
2. Welcome Messages:
– President, A/Prof Dr Chandramani Thuraisingham 6-7
– Director, GCFM Prof Datin Dr Chia Yook Chin 8-9
– Medibase Director, Dr S Kaviyarasan 10
– Medibase Director, Dr Aishah Mohd Zain 11
3. Council of the Academy 12

GCFM Faculty Members 12 - 13
Administrative Organisation of Medibase 13
4. Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine: – 14

– Introduction of AFPM and Medibase: 14
– Vision 16
– Mission 16
– Objective 16 - 17
5. Admission Criteria 18 - 22
6. Fees & Financial Policy 23 - 24
7. Academic Policy, Methods and Rules & Regulations 25

– Web-based Distance Learning 25 - 26
– Candidates’ Log Book 28
– Seminars & Workshops 29 - 30
– Duration of Study 31
– Programme / Module Schedule 32 - 35

8. Learning Packages / Modules 36 - 40
9. Assessment 41 - 44
Examination Eligibility Criteria 45 - 46
10. Appendices 47
Appendix (i): Semester 1 – 4 (Tentative Schedule) 47 - 51
Appendix (ii): The General Practice or Primary Care Assessment
Policy 52 - 62
Appendix (iii): Change of Address 63

WELCOME TO THE GRADUATE CERTIFICATE
IN FAMILY MEDICINE (GCFM)
Welcome to the Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine (GCFM) Programme,
Congratulations on your decision to join the GCFM. As you embark on this new
continuing Professional Development Programme, you must have a lot of
questions on how to prepare yourself for your new endeavour.
This handbook was designed by the AFPM / Medibase to help answer some of
your questions. It is designed to guide you throughout your course of study and
answer some of the many questions you might have as a new postgraduate
distant learning candidate. It will provide you with the required information that
is of importance and interest to guide you in your studies at the AFPM /
Medibase. In this handbook, you will find the information you need in relations
to academic policy matters, rules and regulations, admission requirements, fees,
modules, support services and other relevant matters.
Information contained here is subject to change at the discretion of AFPM /

Medibase. We reserve the right to withdraw/alter modules, fees, calendar
schedules, rules and regulations, etc.
If you have queries about any of the information in this Handbook and other
matters related to the GCFM Programme, please contact:
Medibase Sdn Bhd

Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia
Unit 1-5, Level 1, Enterprise 3B, Technology Park Malaysia,
Lebuhraya Puchong-Sungei Besi, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur.
Telephone: 603-8993 9176 / 603 89939177

Fax: 603 8993 9187
Email: mala@afpm.org.my; nathan.m@afpm.org.my
Website: www.afpm.org.my

Contact Person
For technical help, modules access related matters, policy, deferment, payment
etc candidates need to contact Ms Mala (mala@afpm.org.my) or Mr Nathan
(nathan.m@afpm.org.my) / Ms Vicky (vicky@afpm.org.my)
Email address of Module Writers / Accessors are given inside and candidates can
contact them on modules (contents) related matters.
5 | Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT of Academy of Family Physicians
of Malaysia
Dear Trainees
It is indeed my pleasure to welcome you to the Academy of Family Physicians of
Malaysia. Congratulations on having taken this initiative towards professional
development in Family Medicine by enrolling in the Graduate Certificate in Family
Medicine (GCFM) Programme. Kindly allow me to introduce you to the Vision and
Mission of the Academy, which I hope you will your goals too.
The Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia aspires with its Vision to promote high
quality clinical practice, education, and research for Malaysian general practice.
Through its Mission statements, the Academy endeavours to reach its objectives by: -
I. Improving the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities
in Malaysia.
II. Supporting members in their pursuit of clinical excellence.
III. Promoting the ‘One Family One Doctor’ concept.

With both the vision and mission statements of the Academy being closely aligned to
those of the Ministry of Health (MOH), we hope to promote better healthcare as well
as health education amongst our communities in order to achieve a healthy and
productive nation by elevating the standards of care and patient outcomes in
Malaysia.
It is my fervent hope that on successful completion of the GCFM Programme, you will
be motivated and empowered to proceed to the Advanced Training in Family
Medicine (ATFM) Programme, in your quest for mastery in the field.
Best Wishes!
Associate Professor Dr Chandramani Thuraisingham

MESSAGE FROM the DIRECTOR
Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine
(GCFM)
As you are already aware, the Covid-19 pandemic struck the world in the first
quarter of 2020 and currently it still rages on and does not appear to be waning.
A consequence of this Covid-19 outbreak was that we had suspended registering
new candidates in July 2020 but subsequently had re-opened to take in new
candidates every 6 months as is the usual practice. The final examination for all
candidates from now on baring any new unforeseen matters will take place as
per scheduled i.e. every 6 months in May and November each year.
In order not to delay the training program we have instituted virtual online
teaching. This will very likely be the mode of delivery for you throughout the full
2 years of the course. The final examination will in all likelihood be online as well
Virtual classes have their own challenges but all things considered, provide a very
useful alternative mode of teaching. Hence everyone needs to be patient with
the difficulties that we are facing.
Having given you some gloomy news, let me now welcome you to the Graduate
Certificate in Family Medicine course.
Much has already been said about the importance and role of Family Medicine.
My responsibility now upon your entering the course is to ensure that you will
have the opportunity to receive optimal training to prepare you to undertake the
advanced vocational training, and eventually for a career in general /primary care
practice. Hence the purpose of this course is to widen, deepen and update you

on the core knowledge needed to pursue a career up to the best standards in
general/primary care practice.
As this is an online course, much depends on you yourself. How much you will
gain from it will also depend a lot on your own initiative and commitment. You
will need to make sacrifices in order to further yourself. But let me assure you
that it will be well worth it in the long run.
To this end modules have been designed to equip you with this knowledge.
Important areas that general practitioners/primary care doctors need to be
competent in, is our focus. The virtual workshops while not the best way to do
them are also designed and modified to serve this purpose.
You will also be required to be assessed in order to ensure you have achieved the
learning outcomes. However, the nature of the assessment in this programme is
based on a formative evaluation as well as on your summative performance. This
should not be a hurdle if you are conscientiously doing the modules.
I would also advise all of you to refer to and read the handbook carefully
especially the guidelines and rules about your assignments and logbook.
Finally, I urge all of you not only to work hard but at the same time to enjoy the
course. Certainly there is a lot to learn and this is an excellent opportunity to do
so. The Faculty and the Staff will be more than happy to help you achieve this
goal.
Good luck in your training.

Sincerely,
Professor Datin Dr Chia Yook Chin

Director,
Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine Programme

MESSAGE FROM
the DIRECTOR of MEDIBASE
I would like to welcome you to the Intake 27(January 2022)

of The Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine conducted by
the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia which provides two year (four
semester) well-structured distance learning program.
This program helps in enhancing your knowledge, attitude, practice and skills as a
trained primary care provider. This is the first step to specialisation in Family
Medicine and on completion you can enrol in the Advanced Training in Family
Medicine which leads MAFP/FRACGP which is recognised by Ministry of Health
and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
You have gone through lots of exams and test and it is not the end yet; exams will
be there as long as you go for the best. Finance, family, time constraint and work
may hinder in your post graduate studies and you need to plan ahead. I wish you
get every success in its each turn.
All the best and good luck
Dr Kaviyarasan Sailin
Director, Medibase Sdn Bhd

MESSAGE FROM
the DIRECTOR of MEDIBASE
Welcome on board intake 27 (January 2022 ) to the Graduate Certificate in Family

Medicine (GCFM) conducted by the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia.
This two-year (4 semesters) distance-learning programme is a preliminary step to

Advance Training Programme, to help you enhance your knowledge, attitude and
practice management skills as a primary care provider.
Upon completion of this course (GCFM), you are encouraged to proceed with the
Advance Training in Family Medicine to obtain the MAFP/FRACGP which is
recognized by the Ministry of Health and Royal Australian College of General
Practitioners.
Congratulations for taking this first step forward and wishing you all the best.
Dr Aishah Bte Mohd Zain

Director, Medibase Sdn Bhd

COUNCIL OF THE ACADEMY 2021-2022
Executive Committee
A/Prof Dr Chandramani
Thuraisingam - President
Dr Wee Eng Chye - Past President
Dato’ Dr Lee Cheng Yew - President Elect
Dr Kaviyarasan a/l Sailin - Chairman of Council
Dr Wong Ping Foo - Honorary Secretary
Dr Aishah Mohd Zain - Honorary Treasurer
Dean of Graduate
Prof Datuk Dr Sheikh Mohd Amin - Studies
Dr Anis Ezdiana Bte Abd Aziz - Chief Censor
Council Members
Dr T. Nagammai
Prof Dr Kwa Siew Kim Dr Rohimah Md Yusof
Dr Isriyanti Mohd
Dr Hairel Anuar Selamat Rafae
Dr Norsiah Ali Prof Dr Khoo Ee Ming
Dr Raj Kumar S Maharajah Dr Rajvinder Singh
Dr Parmjit Singh Dr Sasikala Devi
GCFM FACULTY MEMBERS

Prof Datin Dr Chia Yook Chin – GCFM Director
A/Prof Dr Chandran Rajagopal – Member
Dr V.Paranthaman – Member
Dr K Sudha Nanthan – Member
Dr Nurainul Hana Bt Shamsuddin – Member
Dr Ng Kien Keat – Member
Dr Adina Abdullah – Member
Dr Ching Siew Mooi – Member
Prof Dr Khoo Ee Ming – Member
A/Prof Dr Nik Sherina Hanafi – Member
Prof Dr Kwa Siew Kim – Member
Dr Ho Bee Kiau – Member
Dr Nurdiana Abdullah – Member

GCFM FACULTY MEMBERS (cont)
Dr Navin Kumar – Member

Dr Wee Eng Chai – Member
Dr Kaviyarasan Sailin – Member
ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANISATION OF MEDIBASE
A/P Dr Chandramani
Thuraisingham – Director
Dr S Kaviyarasan – Director
Ms Nirmala Devi Haridas – Courses Manager
Mr Thillainathan – Course Co-ordinator
Ms Vickneswary Gopiraj
Mr Sivanathan Kathan

GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN FAMILY MEDICINE
1. ACADEMY OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS/MEDIBASE:

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT
The Academy was established as the College of General Practitioners of Malaysia

in 1973. It was renamed as the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia (AFPM)
after its application for registration was approved by the Registrar of Societies in
1996. The primary aim of the AFPM is academic; that is education, training,
assessment, research and publication in the discipline of general practice/family
medicine.
The AFPM has been in the forefront in the provision of General Practice
education and training in areas related to the practice needs of its members.
These courses are conducted in collaboration with local and foreign institutions.
Courses have been provided in the following areas of study that are cognate to
family practice: Emergency Medicine, Occupational & Environmental Health,
STD, Dermatology, Eye, ENT, Clinical Nutrition, Psychological Medicine, etc.
Some of these are short courses while others are longer leading to the award of
certificates, diplomas and fellowships.
Medibase, as a subsidiary of AFPM was formed to assist in providing these

courses. AFPM / Medibase recognizes the need for training all General
Practitioners to a level of competence in Good Medical Practice to meet the
national health care delivery requirements. Thus, it has developed a two-year
(four semesters) distance learning programme as a Graduate Certificate in Family
Medicine (GCFM). This programme is a structured course for all general
practitioners designed to raise the level of knowledge and skills as well as instil
relevant attitudes towards continuing professional development.

After successful completion and passing of the GCFM and its Final Examination,
candidates can continue with the Advanced Training in Family Medicine
Programme (ATFM) for another two years, after which he/she should be ready
and be well prepared to sit for the internationally recognised Conjoint
MAFP/FRACGP Examination. The Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine and
the Advanced Training in Family Programmes both have their own entry criteria
as well as examination eligibility criteria (including for the Conjoint Examinations)
that every applicant has to meet. Please refer to information provided separately
on these matters. It is especially important that interested applicants understand
which work experience is recognized as General Practice for training, exam
eligibility purposes as well as for award of the MAFP and FRACGP.
The Ministry of Health has recognised the GCFM qualification and is aiding
Medical Officers to be posted to the Community Health Clinics. The
MAFP/FRACGP is now recognised as a specialist qualification registrable with the
National Specialist Register and after a period of gazettement the qualification is
equivalent to the Masters in Family Medicine and recognised as a Family
Medicine Specialist / Family Physician. Interested applicants are advised to read
up carefully all information including entry and exam eligibility requirements and
general practice experience assessment policies before submitting applications.
Processing fees are non-refundable. Any questions or enquiries can be forwarded
to the following email: afpm@po.jaring.asia

1.1 VISION
To promote high quality clinical practice, education and research for Malaysian
General Practice.
1.2 MISSION
• To improve the health and wellbeing of individuals, families and

communities in Malaysia.
• To support our members in their pursuit of clinical excellence.
• To promote the concept of ‘One Family One Doctor’.
1.3 GCFM Objective:
1.3.1 General Objective:

The GCFM is designed to upgrade standard of care in General Practice, and to
increase awareness of the global trend towards the provision of continuing and
comprehensive care by the family doctor. It is designed to achieve standards to
practice as a competent general practitioner.
1.3.2 Specific Objectives:

• To increase the knowledge and skills of general practitioners in
achieving a high level of competence in general practice and family
medicine
• To enhance the understanding of the physician’s ethical and social
responsibilities
• To improve the diagnostic skills and rationalise the prescribing habits
of general practitioners
• To help general practitioners to deliver a high level of care in the most
cost-effective way to their patients and their families
• To emphasize preventive primary health care and promote education
on health issues in the general population

• To teach managerial skills to operate a given health facility
• To promote the concept of “One Family One Doctor” in the community

2. ADMISSION
The AFPM/Medibase may admit candidates who fulfil the minimum entry
requirements as set out below for the GCFM Programme and ATFM Programme.
All candidates are treated in a fair and non-biased manner. AFPM / Medibase
offers equal opportunities to all candidates to specialise in family medicine.
2.1 Entry Requirements:

2.1.1 GCFM Programme Entry Requirements
For a candidate to be eligible to enroll for the GCFM Programme, such

candidate must: -
(i) be a medical practitioner fully registered either with the Malaysian
Medical Council (“MMC”) and is practicing in Malaysia:
(ii) have at least one (1) year working experience as a medical officer;
(iii) currently be in full time primary care/general practice or its fully
recognised equivalent (refer to Appendix I on ‘General Practice or
Primary Care Assessment Policy’) and remain in full time primary
care/general practice or its fully recognized equivalent throughout the
GCFM Programme until the passing of the ‘GCFM Final Professional
Examination’;
(iv) possess a current Annual Practicing Certificate;
(v) be an associate or ordinary member in benefit of the AFPM (as defined
in AFPM’s Constitution) or be a life member of the AFPM; and
(vi) be approved by the ‘AFPM Board of Censors’ which reserves the right
to reject any application.
Language Requirement:
The course will be taught in English. Thus, candidates must be sufficiently
competent in English.

2.2.1 Admission Procedures:
2.2.1 Admission application form may be obtained from the AFPM office, or the
AFPM website, www.afpm.org.my
2.2.2 Applicant needs to be a member of AFPM to enrol for the GCFM.
Membership application form can be obtained as mentioned above in
2.3.1.
2.2.3 The completed application form, together with certified certificates

and AFPM membership application / membership evidence have to be
forwarded to AFPM before the closing date.
2.2.4 Upon submission of application forms, the following payments

must be made:-
(i) AFPM membership application fee of RM400.00
Only for candidates who have not registered as member of AFPM; and
(ii) Non- refundable processing fee for each programme

application of RM500.00
Application shall NOT be processed if the above payments are not paid
before the closing date.
2.2.5 No cash payment will be accepted. All payments may be made by

cheque, bank draft, online banking or telegraphic transfer and shall be made
payable to “ ACADEMY OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS OF MALAYSIA “ (AM BANK
001-201-0101820) . For online banking/telegraphic transfer , please forward
the proof of payment by emailing the banking receipt to
accounts@afpm.org.my.
2.2.6 Once the completed forms have been submitted and the relevant
payments have been made, the AFPM membership and/or the programme
application forms will be processed and sent to the Chief Censor/Board of
Censors for approval.

2.2.7 Upon approval, Medibase will forward offer letters to successful
candidates. The candidate will need to return the acceptance form together
with the balance of the first year fee (RM8,000.00 for Malaysians /
RM10,000.00 including the 0% GST for non-Malaysians), payable to the
Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia (AM BANK 001-201-0101820)
2.2.8 If the application is not approved, Medibase will inform the

candidate as to why his/her application was considered not eligible.
2.2.9 Candidates’ registrations may be cancelled if statements made by

candidates in their admission applications are found to be false.
2.2.10 If an application is incomplete or does not fulfil the requirements,

the application will not be considered.
2.2.11 Applications may be submitted at any time throughout the year, but
must reach Medibase office within the stipulated deadline according to the
semester’s intake as set out in the application forms.
2.2.12 All applications are subject to approval by the AFPM Board of

Censors and the board reserves the right to reject any application without
providing any reason.

2.3 Deferment Rules for the Programme
2.3.1 Deferment of GCFM Programme

(i) Candidates may be allowed to defer a maximum of ONE (1) time
for each semester, subject to the discretion of the Director of the
GCFM Programme in consultation with the Censor Board.
(ii) All deferments need to be notified to the office in writing.
(iii) In the event no notification is received, it will be deemed that
the candidate is no longer interested in continuing with the
course and will be deemed to have terminated his/her
candidature
(iv) In the event the deferment is due to medical grounds,
supporting documents must be submitted immediately
(v) All deferment fee must be paid in any event of deferment
(vi) A candidate is not allowed to defer more than 2 times in a
semester. After which, candidate has to re-register as a new
candidate and re-start the program from the beginning plus pay
the whole GCFM Programme fee at the time of registration.
(vii) Candidates MUST complete the GCFM Programme and pass

the GCFM Final Professional Examination within five (5) years
from the candidate’s enrolment date.
(viii) Upon re-enrolment into the GCFM Programme after
deferment, the candidate will be subject to the current rules
and regulations and fee structure at the time of re- enrolment.
(ix) Any candidate who is absent/away from the course for
whatever reason more than 21 days per semester is deemed to
have not been in full time practice and hence are required to
repeat that semester
(x) You may be required to provide documentary evidence of you
being in full time primary care practice in the two (2) years.

2.5 Withdrawal of Candidature:
A candidate who wishes to withdraw from the GCFM programme needs to

submit a withdrawal letter to the Medibase management. He/she may
subsequently apply for re-admission to the programme only by submitting a
new application and to start the programme from the beginning.

3. FEES & FINANCIAL POLICY
3.1 Candidates are required to pay all fees stipulated by AFPM for each year for
which they are registered.
3.2 The GCFM Programme fee will be based on the fees published in the AFPM
website and application forms in the year of enrolment of the candidate. In
addition to the programme fees, upon submission of the programme
application forms, the following payments must be made: -
(i) AFPM membership application fee of RM400.00 (inclusive of 0% GST) –
only for candidates who have not registered as a member of AFPM; and
(ii) Non-refundable processing fee for each programme application of
RM500.00 (inclusive of 0% GST).
3.3. The programme fees shall be payable upon acceptance of our offer. The
required amount of fees is subject to change by AFPM from time to time,
should the need arise.
3.4 The programme fee published in the AFPM website and application forms in
the year of enrolment is payment for academic activities only. Other payments
such as candidate’s travelling expenses to attend workshop/seminars,
accommodation, etc. must be borne by the candidates themselves.
3.5 All payments should be made payable to the [‘ACADEMY OF FAMILY
PHYSICIANS
OF MALAYSIA’ (AM BANK 001-201-0101820)]
3.6 If any candidate does not pay the required amount of fees within the allowed
period stipulated in the offer letter, or by such time as may have been agreed
under special arrangements, or under a period of grace allowed by AFPM /
Medibase, then his/her registration will lapse and he/she will be required to
withdraw from the programme and his/her web access shall be withdrawn.
3.7 Once enrolled, request for refund will not be entertained.
3.8 Should a candidate defer a semester (for the GCFM), a deferment processing
fee of RM500.00 (inclusive of 0% GST) will be charged for each deferment.
Please refer to item 2.3 above (‘Deferment Rules for the Programmes’) for
further information on deferment.

3.9 A candidate shall be required to pay an exam registration fee of RM500.00
(inclusive of 0% GST) for every re-sit attempt of the examination under the
GCFM Final Professional Examination.
3.10If a candidate wants his/her examination marks to be rechecked, a fee of
RM2,000.00 (inclusive 0% GST) will be charged and if there is an error on the
part of Medibase, the fee will be refunded.
3.11No remarking of any component of the GCFM Programme assessment or
examination shall be entertained.

4. ACADEMIC POLICY, METHODS AND RULES & REGULATIONS
AFPM / Medibase is committed to providing a quality learning environment for its

members through innovative teaching and learning methods. All GCFM Programme
candidates have a responsibility to make every effort to maintain satisfactory
progress in their course.
Course Directors, Module Writers / Coordinators and other staff are responsible for
preparing and presenting material at an appropriate standard with the resources
available; assessing candidates’ work fairly, objectively and consistently across the
whole of the study period for the course; and providing other relevant assistance.
The Management reserves the right to amend, add or delete courses as deemed
appropriate and in accordance with suggested study patterns, enrolment
requirements or other reasons. Students will be notified of any changes made.
The Teaching-Learning method in GCFM is divided into:
4.1 Overview of Course Structure for GCFM Programme
4.1.1 The GCFM Programme consist of four (4) semesters. Each semester is of six
(6) months duration. Candidature period is five (5) years- calculated from
enrolment. A candidate needs to pass the Final Examination within this time
frame.
4.1.2 For each semester, four (4) modules will be online, with a total of sixteen
(16) modules for the four (4) semesters. Learning- teaching time for each
module will be for a period of one (1) month, with an extra grace of fifteen
(15) days given for submission of required assignments. During that period,
candidates will be able to contact the Module Writer/coordinator online and
get whatever help from him/her.
4.1.3 A final profession examination on all the 16 modules will be held at the end
of Semester 4 (“GCFM Final Professional Examination”)

4.1.4 Web-based Distance Learning Modules: Distance learning or distance
education, is a field of education that focuses on pedagogy and andragogy,
technology, and instructional systems design that aim to deliver education
to students who are not physically “on site”. Distance learning is the process
of creating an educational experience of equal qualitative value for the
learner to best suit their needs outside the classroom. It provides students
with an educational alternative to traditional classroom settings and the
time constraints they impose. Rather than attending courses in person,
online courses allow students to take classes from the convenience of their
own home (or clinic). With the cooperation of Blackboard Learn/ AFPM IT,
the GCFM Programme will be offered via distant learning.
4.1.5 Candidates will be given the necessary tutoring on how to access the ELMS
to study online.
Distance learning students should possess the following characteristics:
– Be self-motivated and disciplined
– Be a good “time manager”
– Willing to commit 6 to 10 hours of time each week to a Distance Learning
class.
– Working knowledge of computer
– Can communicate effectively through e-mail and discussion boards
– Have convenient and frequent access to a computer with an internet
connection
– Comfortable with e-mail, word processing, and with using the internet
– Able to express thoughts and opinions in writing
– Can read analytically and critically
– Do not give up easily and willing to seek help when necessary
4.1.6 All seminars/workshops/teaching/exams may be virtual and/or physical face

to face or could be virtual and / or combination i.e. a hybrid mode of delivery.
4.1.7 Seminars & Workshops: Seminar/workshop sessions are facilitator-led

meetings with candidates. These seminar/workshop sessions are conducted
in four (4) sessions of two (2) days for each session over a weekend in each
semester. The first workshop which will be conducted at the beginning of

each semester is the “Practice Skills Workshop” and the second workshop
which would be conducted a few months later, is the Modules Workshop.
Practice Skills Workshop deals about the practical aspects and skills involved
in Family Medicine. The Modules Workshop will discuss on the modules
itself. As part of the GCFM Final Professional Examination criteria,
candidates must:
i) Have attended all the Practice Skills Workshops under the GCFM
Programme and
ii) Have attended at least three (3) of the four (4) Modules Workshops
under the GCFM Programme
(please refer to the section on GCFM Final Professional Examination

for full details on the examination criteria)
4.1.8 All activities, time/duration of activities and coordinators/assessors are

subject to changes. Further information on the GCFM Programme
curriculum, programme structure and programme schedules will be made
available to the candidates upon enrolment and is accessible on the ELMS.
4.1.9 The candidates must ensure that they have sufficient internet access/a
computer/accessories/and other equipment for virtual workshops,
teachings and exams.
4.1.10 Candidates who do not have the necessary accessories/equipment and

internet facilities to access the program may not be able to complete the
programme successfully and hence advised not to apply for the course.
4.1.11 Each candidate must re-register at the beginning of each semester. If re-registration is not
done and no written explanation is received within a month of the first day of the semester,
the candidate is deemed to be no longer in the course and his/her candidature terminated

4.2 Log Book
Each candidate will be given a Log Book. Candidates will need to record the details
of patients they themselves have managed in the various categories of ailment and
submit the Log Book two (2) months before the final examination. Handing in of a
logbook is prerequisite for eligibility to take the final professional examination. A
logbook has to be deemed satisfactory in order to pass the examination.

Programme outline of the seminars/workshops is as below:
Semester 1
Practice Skills Workshop 1: Introduction to GCFM
Practice of Family Medicine Diagnostic Strategy
Evidence Based Learning
Medical Information Searching
Principles of Family Medicine
Practice in Family Medicine
Family Medicine in Malaysia
Research in General Practice
Modules Workshop Respiratory Problems
(Modules 1 – 4) Child & Adolescent Health
Chronic Disease Management
Gerontology / Health Care of the Elderly
Semester 2
Practice Skills Workshop 2: Doctor – patient Communications
Communication Skills in Communication with Self & Being a Reflective
Family Medicine Doctor
Communication at a Distance
Patient Education: Sharing Information &
Counselling in FM
Consultation Practices
Modules Workshop Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
(Modules 5 – 8) Gastrointestinal Problems
Haematology, Oncology & Palliative Care
Renal Medicine

Semester 3
Practice Skills Workshop 3: Law & Practice

Professionalism, Ethics & Medical Ethics
Legal Practice Management
Practice Audit
Medical Legislation
Medical Records & Confidentiality
Prescribing & Referrals
Professional Health
Modules Workshop Neurology & Endocrine Problems
(Modules 9 – 12) ENT / Eye Problems
Muscular Skeleton System
Cardiology
Semester 4
Practice Skills Workshop 4: Physical Examination Techniques
Physical Examination & Procedural Skills
Procedural Skills
Modules Workshop Dermatology & STI

(Modules 13 – 15) Women’s Health
Mental Health Problems
Final Professional Examination

4.4 Duration of Study
The Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine can be completed within a period of
two (2) years if all 16 modules (assignments and MCQ) and Log Books are
submitted on time. Candidates also need to attend the required workshops and
pass the final professional exam conducted at the end of semester 4.
4.5 Programme / Module Schedule

4.5.1 All activities, time/duration of activities and coordinators/assessors are
subject to changes.
4.5.2 Each module has a Module Writer/coordinator who is responsible for

academic related matters. At any time during your course, if you feel that
you need help with your studies, you can seek the help of your Module
Writer/coordinator for the relevant module. Candidates can
communicate with him/her via the e-mail address provided.
4.5.3 Module Writer/coordinator are responsible for only academic related

matters.

Semester 1
DIRECTOR /
NO ACTIVITY/MODULE AUTHOR
COORDINATOR / ASSESSOR
1.
Practice Skills Workshop Dr Ching Siew Mooi
2. Modules Workshop
3. Modules:
Dr Nurdiana
1. Respiratory Problems Abdullah Dr Nurdiana Abdullah
nurdiana@ummc.edu.my
Dr Aishah Mohd Zain
amzwellness@yahoo.com
2. Child & Adolescent Prof Dr Ng Chirk Dr Nurainul Hana

Health Jenn drhanasham@gmail.com
3. Chronic Disease Dr Ng Kien Keat Dr Ng Kien Keat

Management drkkng@hotmail.com
Gerontology /
4. Health Dr Adina Abdullah Dr Adina Abdullah
Care of the Elderly adina@ummc.edu.my
Dr Abdul Rahaman Pozan
arpozan@gmail.com

Semester 2
No ACTIVITY/MODULE AUTHOR DIRECTOR /

1. Practice Skills Workshop Dr Isriyanti Mohd Rafae
2. Modules Workshop
3. Modules:
5. Health Promotion & Prof Datuk Dr Dr V. Paranthaman

Disease Prevention DM Thuraiappah drparan@gmail.com
Dr Ching Siew
6. Gastrointestinal Mooi Dr Ching Siew Mooi
Problems sm_ching@upm.edu.my
7. Haematology, Prof Dr Khoo Ee Ming Prof Dr Khoo Ee Ming

Oncology & khooem@um.edu.my
Palliative Care Dr Loo Hou Chan
loohouchan@gmail.com
8. Renal Medicine Dr Wee Eng Chye Dr Wee Eng Chye

drecwee@gmail.com
Dr Zeenat Abdul Shakur
zparpia1@gmail.com

Semester 3
DIRECTOR /
No ACTIVITY/MODULE AUTHOR
1. Practice Skills Workshop Dr Navin Kumar Devaraj
2. Modules Workshop
3. Modules:
Prof Dr Kwa Siew

9. Neurology & Kim Prof Dr Kwa Siew Kim
Endocrine
Problems drkwask@gmail.com
Dr Sasikala Amirthalingam
amirthalingamsasikala@gm
ail.com
10. ENT / Eye Problems Dr Kaviyarasan S Dr Kaviyarasan S

drkavi11@gmail.com
Dr K Sutha
11. Muscular Skeleton Nanthan Dr Sutha Nanthan
System sudhananthan@gmail.com
Dr Jayanthi Poonen
Jpoonen32@yahoo.com
Prof Datin Dr Chia Yook

12. Cardiology Prof Datin Dr Chia Chin
Yook Chin chiayc@um.edu.my

Semester 4
DIRECTOR /
No ACTIVITY/MODULE AUTHOR
1. Practice Skills Workshop Prof Dr Nik Sherina Hanafi
2. Modules Workshop
3. Modules:
A/Prof Dr A/Prof Dr Chandran

13. Dermatology & STI Chandran Rajagopal
Rajagopal drchandranmd@gmail.com
Dr S Sivashanmuganathan
drsiva57@gmail.com
14. Women’s Health Dr Ho Bee Kia Dr Ho Bee Kiau

bkho@hotmail.com
Dr Fazlina Mohamed Yusoff
drfazlinamy@yahoo.com
15. Mental Health Dr Navin Kumar Dr Navin Kumar

Problems knavin@upm.edu.my
Prof Dr Nik
16. Emergent Problems Sherina Prof Dr Nik Sherina Hanafi
niksherina_hanafi@yahoo.co
& Acute Care m
Medicine Dr Ahmad Ihsan
ahmadihsan@ummc.edu.my

5. LEARNING PACKAGES / MODULES
Each learning package is built around a topic which is relevant to family practice.
An overview of each module is given below. Each of the modules was written by
Family Physicians and Medical University lecturers who have vast knowledge and
experience in Family Medicine.
5.1 Respiratory Problems
Main Topics:
Acute Upper Respiratory Tract Infections Author: Dr Nurdiana Abdullah
Acute Lower Respiratory Tract Infections Reviewe: Prof Datuk Dr DM
Chronic Cough, Tuberculosis, Lung Cancer Thuraiappah
Bronchial Asthma & COPD
5.2 Child and Adolescent Health
Main Topics:
Acute Paediatric Problems Author: Prof Dr Ng Chirk Jenn
Developmental Paediatrics Reviewer: Prof Dr Nik Sherina Hanafi
Adolescent Health
Behavioural Paediatrics
5.3 Chronic Disease Management
Main Topics:
Chronic Disease Management Author: Dr Ng Kien Keat
Hypertension Reviewer: Dr Inderjit Singh Ludher
Diabetes Mellitus
Obesity & Metabolic Disorders

5.4 Gerontology / Health Care of the Elderly
Main Topics:
Ageing, Fitness & Assessment Author: Dr Lim Ein Lai
The Frail Elderly Reviewer: Prof Datin Dr Chia Yook
Parkinsonism, Stroke & TIA Chin
Safe Prescription for the Elderly
5.5 Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
Main Topics:
Healthy Diet & Nutritional Counselling Author: Prof Datuk Dr DM
Epidemiology & Communicable Diseases Thuraiappah
Non-communicable Diseases Reviewer: Prof Dr Khoo Ee Ming
Travel Medicine
Occupational Health:
Work Related Health Service
Workplace Hazards
Fitness to Work and Return to Work
Statutory Medical Examinations &
Workmen’s Compensation
5.6 Gastrointestinal Problems
Main Topics:
Upper Gastrointestinal Problems Author: Dr Ching Siew Mooi
Lower Gastrointestinal Problems Reviewer: Prof Dr Khoo Ee Ming
Hepatic Problems
Gallbladder & Pancreatic Problems

5.7 Haematology, Oncology & Palliative Care
Main Topics:
Haematological Problems Author: Prof Dr Khoo Ee Ming
Prevention & Early Detection of Cancer Reviewer: Prof Dr Ng Chirk Jenn
Cancer Management
Palliative Care
5.8 Renal Medicine
Main Topics:
Acute Urinary Disorders Author: Dr Wee Eng Chye
Chronic Renal Disease Reviewer: A/Prof Dr Tong Seng Fah
Male genito-urological disorders
5.9 Neurology & Endocrine Problems
Main Topics:
Acute Neurological Problems Author: Prof Dr Kwa Siew Kim
Chronic Neurological Problems Reviewer: Prof Dr Chan Sook Ching
Endocrine Problems
5.10 ENT / Eye Problems
Main Topics:
Ear Problems Author: Dr Kaviyarasan
Nose Throat Problems Reviewer: Prof Dr Harmy Bin
Eye Symptoms & Acute Conditions Mohamed Yusoff
Eyelid Problems & Chronic Eye Conditions

5.11 Muscular Skeleton System
Main Topics: Authors: Dr K Sudha Nanthan

Acute Musculoskeletal Problems Reviewer: A/Prof Dr Chandran
Chronic Musculoskeletal Problems Rajagopal
5.12 Cardiology
Main Topics:
Angina Pectoris Author: Prof Datin Dr Chia Yook
Diagnosis and Managing Patients with MI Chin
after Hospital Discharge Reviewer: Prof Dr Khoo Ee Ming
Heart Failure Diagnosis & Treatment
Atrial Fibrillation
ECG Abnormalities
5.13 Dermatology & Sexually Transmitted Infections
Main Topics:
Approach to Skin Infections Author: A/Prof Dr Chandran
Non-infective Skin Disorders Rajagopal
Pigmentation, Hair & Nail Disorders Reviewer: Dr K Sudha Nanthan
Office Management of Sexually
Transmitted Infection

5.14 Women’s Health
Main Topics:
Gynaecology: Author: Prof Dr Kwa Siew Kim
Fertility & Infertility Issues Reviewer: Prof Dr Khoo Ee Ming
Common Gynaecological Symptoms
& Disorders
Sexual Dysfunction, Menopause
& Incontinence
Gynaecological Cancers
Obstetrics:
Antenatal Care
Medical Disorders in Pregnancy
Complications in Pregnancy
Postnatal Care
5.15 Mental Health Problems
Main Topics:
Dr Inderjit Singh
Psychiatric Assessment, Anxiety Disorder Author: Ludher
Personality Disorder & Abnormal Reviewer: Prof Dr Khoo Ee Ming
Illness Behaviours
Schizophrenia
Mood Disorders, Suicide, Grief & Addiction
5.16 Emergent Problems & Acute Care Medicine
Main Topics:
Prof Dr Nik Sherina
Emergencies Author: Hanafi
Acute Cardiac Problems Reviewer: Prof Datuk Dr Sheikh
Myocardial Infarction & Heart Failure Mohd Amin
Sports Injuries, Accidents & Violence

5. ASSESSMENT
5.1 Assessment and Satisfactory Completion of GCFM
5.1.1 In order for a candidate to pass the GCFM Programme and awarded the
Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine, the candidate must obtain at least
66% of the total assessment marks (see the assessment in Item 5.1.2 and
weightage calculation in item 5.1.3) and obtain not less than 50% in the
GCFM Final Professional Examination.
5.1.2 The following are the assessment that must be completed by a candidate
under the GCFM Programme
i) Write two (2) assignments for each of the four (4) modules per
semester and submit them before the deadline;
ii) Complete activities of an online MCQ Examination in a single attempt
at the end of each module (there will be ten (10) questions per
module and candidates will be given twenty (20) minutes for this
online examination);
iii) Submit all assignments and MCQ for the four (4) modules in each
semester in order for the candidate is eligible to proceed to the next
semester; and
iv) Write in the details of patients that the candidate managed in the
various categories of ailment into the ‘Practice Logbook’ (in the
format prescribed by AFPM) and submit the ‘Practice Logbook’ two
(2) months before the GCFM Final Professional Examination; and
If the candidate fails the requirements (i) and (ii) the candidate will
need to defer the semester.
5.1.3 The weightage of marks for the assessment will be as follows:
Multiple Choice Questions (Online) 10%

Assignments 40%
GCFM Final Professional Examination 50%
Total 100%

5.1.4 The Final Professional Examination will be at the end of Year 2 of the
course and will be based on a total of eighty (80) single best answers (SBA)
of the multiple-choice questions (MCQ). There will be five (5) questions
from each module. For more information on the eligibility criteria to sit for
the GCFM Professional Examination refer to Item 6 (Examination Eligibility
Criteria) below.
5.2 Assessment policies
5.2.1 The format of assessment and division of marks may be modified at any
time during the programme upon the recommendation of the Faculty Board of
GCFM Programme
5.2.2 The GCFM Director and the Board of Examiners shall be the authority for
the confirmation of assessment results leading to the award to be
conferred on candidates. All submissions pertaining to these assessments
shall be presented through the Module writers/tutors/coordinators to the
Board of Examiners for endorsement and approval.
5.2.3 It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure all assessment items are
submitted by the due date. Candidates must keep a copy of all their
assignments. Computer hardware failure will not be accepted as a reason
for not being able to produce a copy o of an assignments.
5.2.4 For GCFM programme, assignments sent beyond the deadline without
valid reason will not be accepted and no marks will be given. The
candidate will need to defer the semester.
5.2.5 Module writers/Coordinator are responsible for dealing with candidates’

enquiries concerning official results for individual assessment items. Their
decision concerning the results of an assignment is final.
5.2.6 If any candidate has not submitted the online MCQ and assignments of the 4
modules, then that candidate shall be ineligible to proceed to the
subsequent semester. A fee of RM500.00 will be charged for each
deferment.

5.2.7 All course work including not only the assignments and logbook but all other
assessments must be the candidate’s own and original work.
5.2.8 All work presented for assessment is expected to be the candidates own and
original work. AFPM / Medibase expects all candidates to be honest,
meticulous and acknowledge all sources of materials. No candidate shall
attempt to breach the assessment regulations or the scheme of assessment
as set, and no candidate shall procure or attempt to procure such a breach.
Cheating, plagiarism, misrepresentation, bribery, falsification,
impersonation and other forms of deception will be seriously dealt with.
5.2.9 Copying or allowing others to copy will be given zero (0) mark and the
candidate (s) will be considered as having failed the semester and will need
to defer or re-register into the programme as the case may be.
5.2.10 Candidates are reminded that any instances of plagiarism,

unethical and/or unprofessional matters in oral form and/or all
written works (including online MCQs, assignments, logbooks and the final
examination) stern action will be taken in the form of suspension for a
period of 6 months or longer, or dismissal/termination entirely from the
course as determined by the Faculty Board of GCFM
5.2.11 Any appeal regarding assessment should be forwarded to the Director of

GCFM Programme.
As the case maybe
5.2.12 Should a candidate defer a semester in the GCFM Programme, a deferment

processing fee of RM500.00 will be charged for each deferment. Please refer
to item 2.5
above (Deferment Rules for the Programmes) for further information on
deferment.

5.2.13 A candidate shall be required to pay an exam registration fee of RM500.00
for every re-sit attempt of the examination under the GCFM Final
Professional.
5.2.14 If a candidate wants his/her examination marks to be rechecked, a fee of

RM2,000 will be charged and if there is an error on the part of Medibase,
the fee will be refunded.
5.2.15 No remarking of any component of the GCFM Programme assessment or

examination shall be entertained.
5.2.16 Changes to the modules, policies, rules and regulations pertaining to the
GCFM Programme is the prerogative of the Faculty of Education of AFPM.

6. EXAMINATION ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
6.1 Eligibility Criteria to sit for the GCFM Final Professional
Examination
6.1.1 For a candidate to be eligible to sit for the GCFM Final Professional
Examination, such candidate must: -
- Be a medical practitioner fully registered with the MMC and is

practising in Malaysia:
- Be an associate member or an ordinary member in benefit or be a
life member of the AFPM (as defined in the AFPM’s Constitution)
– have completed the two (2) years of the GCFM Programme within the
prescribed time frame (i.e., MUST complete the GCFM Programme
and pass the GCFM Final Professional Examination within five (5)
years from the candidate’s enrolment date)
– currently be practising full-time in Primary Care and have fulfilled the
minimum two (2) years of primary care /general practice experience
within the last five (5) years prior to the date of the GCFM Final
Professional Examination;
– have submitted all two (2) compulsory assignments required for each
of the modules under the GCFM Programme;
– have sat for and completed the Online MCQ Examination for each of
the modules under the GCFM Programme
– have attended all the Practice Skills workshops under the GCFM
Programme
– have attended at least 3 of the 4 Modules Workshops under the
GCFM Programme;
– have completed and submitted a satisfactory the ‘Practice Logbook’
in the prescribed format which is provided by the AFPM to each
candidate within the stipulated deadline and
– be a member in benefit of AFPM and have paid all outstanding fees
due to AFPM

6.1.2 For the GCFM Final Professional Examination, a candidate must take
note that: -
a) subject to item (b) below, a candidate must complete the GCFM final
Professional Examination within five (5) years from the candidate’s
enrolment date. A candidate shall be required to pay the GCFM Final
Professional Examination registration fee for each re-sit attempt
(please refer to item 3 above on ‘Fees & Refund Policy). Should a
candidate fails to pass the GCFM Final Professional Examination within
five (5) years from the candidate’s enrolment date, such candidate
shall be required to re-enroll into the GCFM Programme and to re-sit
for the GCFM Final Professional Examination again.
b) Any deferment, withdrawal or absence by a candidate from any

segment of the GCFM Final Professional Examination shall be deemed
as a failed attempt of the whole of GCFM Final Professional
Examination. The Board of Censors holds the discretion to offer a
candidate with a “Special Deferment’ will only be granted one (1) time
to a candidate that provides the Board of Censors with a valid reason
together with written proof and such Special Deferment must be
applied before the GCFM Final Professional Examination. Any decision
made by the Board of Censors in consultation with the Chief Examiner
is deemed final.
c) The Censor in Chief of the AFPM reserves the right to add, remove or
make any changes to the eligibility criteria, policies, rules and/or
regulations of the GCFM Final Professional Examination as and when
considered necessary by AFPM in consultation and with the agreement
of the Chief Examiner and the Board of Censors. Candidates are
advised to keep themselves updated by reading all the notifications
and announcements in the AFPM website.
** Candidates are kindly reminded to contact the office for any further
clarification.

Appendix (i)
GRADUATE CERTIFICATE IN FAMILY MEDICINE

Intake 27 January 2022
(Tentative Schedule) *
SEMESTER 1 (Jan – June 2022)
Date Activities Duration Venue / Action
8th – 9th Jan Practice Skills Workshop

2022 1 2 Days Online Virtual Learning
Deadline: Submission of
th
8 -31 Jan Module 1: Module accessible till assignments & online
2022 Respiratory Problems 15th February 2022 MCQ: 15 Feb 2022
Module 2: Deadline: Submission of

1-28 Feb 2022 Child & Adolescent Module accessible till assignments & online
Health 15 Mac 2022 MCQ: 15 Mac 2022
Module 3: Deadline: Submission of

Chronic Diseases Module accessible till assignments & online
1-31 Mac 2022 Management 15 April 2022 MCQ: 15 April 2022
Deadline: Submission of
1-30 April Module accessible till Assignments & online
2022 Module 4: Gerontology 15th May 2022 MCQ: 15 May 2022
21-22 May Module Workshop

2022 (Module 1-4) 2 days Online Virtual Learning
June Semester Break

SEMESTER 2 (June - Dec 2022 )
Practice Skills
Workshop 2
(Communication Skills
in Online Virtual
2-3 July 2022 Family Medicine) 2 days Learning
Deadline:
Module 5: Submission of
Health Promotion & Module accessible assignments &
1-31 July Disease till online
2022 Prevention MCQ: 15 Aug 2022
15 Aug 2022
Deadline:
Submission of
Module 6: Module accessible assignments &
1 – 31 Aug Gastrointestinal till online
2022 Problems MCQ: 15 Sept 2022
15 Sept 2022
Deadline:
Haematology, Module accessible assignments &
1 – 30 Sept Oncology & till online
2022 Palliative Care MCQ: 15 Oct 2022
15 Oct 2022
Deadline:
Submission of
Module accessible assignments &
1 – 30 Oct Module 8: till online
2022 Renal Medicine MCQ: 15 Nov 2022
15 Nov 2022
19- 20 Nov Modules Workshop

2022 (Modules 5 – 8) 2 days TBA
June Semester Break

SEMESTER 3 (Jan – June 2023 )
Practice Skills
Workshop 3
(Professionalism,
Ethics
& Practice
Jan 2023 Management) 2 Days TBA
Deadline:
Neurology & Module assignments &
Endocrine accessible till online
1 – 31 Jan 2023 Problems 15 Feb 2023 MCQ: 15 Feb 2023
Deadline:
Submission of
assignments &
Module online
Module 10: accessible till MCQ: 15 March
1-28 Feb 2023 ENT & Eye Problems 15 March 2023 2023
Deadline:
Submission of
Module 11: Module assignments &
1 – 30 Mac Muscular Skeleton accessible till online
2023 System 15 April 2023 MCQ: 15 April 2023
Deadline:
Submission of
Module assignments &
Module 12: accessible till online
1 – 30 April 2023 Cardiology 15 May 2023 MCQ: 15 May 2023
Modules Workshop
May (Modules 9 – 12) 2 Days TBA
2023
June 2023 Semester Break

SEMESTER 4 (July – Dec 2023)
Practice Skills
Workshop 4
(Office Procedures &
Emergency Care
Management in
Family
July 2023 Medicine) 2 Days TBA
Deadline:
Submission of
assignments &
online
Module 13: Module accessible MCQ: 15 Aug 2023
1-31 July 2023 till
Dermatology & STI
15 Aug 2023
Deadline:
Submission of
Module 14: accessible till online
1 – 31 Aug 2023 15 Sept 2023 MCQ: 15 Sept 2023
Women’s Health
Deadline:
Submission of
assignments &
Module online
1 – 30 Sept Module 15: accessible till MCQ: 15 October
2023 15 October 2023 2023
Mental Health
Problems
Deadline: Submission
of
accessible till online
1-31 October Module 16: 15 Nov 2023 MCQ: 15 Nov 2023
2023 Emergent Problems &
Acute Care Medicine

November 2023 Modules Workshop 1½ Days TBA
(Modules 13 – 15)
FINAL PROFESSIONAL EXAMINATION
* The dates, time and venue are subject to change at the discretion
of AFPM / Medibase

APPENDIX II
The General Practice or Primary Care Assessment Policy
1. The Five Year Rule

To ensure relevance, only general practice or primary care work performed
for the past five years prior to the date of examination is assessed by the
Board of Censor of AFPM (“Censor Board”).
2. Verifiability of information
All candidates must provide AFPM with full, accurate and verifiable
information for their examination applications. Information required from
all candidates are as follows: –
i) certified true copy of registration with the Malaysian Medical Council,
or where applicable, medical council of country of origin which is
recognised by WHO (English translation needed where applicable);
ii) certified true copy/copies of valid Annual Practicing Certificate;
iii) certified true copies of primary and other medical degrees;
iv) letters/documents from head of departments/employers confirming
the candidates’ post, nature of cases seen, and duration/hours of work
where applicable;
v) if the candidates are in self-employment (i.e. in private general practice
or primary care), a certified true copy of general practice or primary
care clinic registration certificate from the Ministry of Health;
vi) information on general practice or primary care experience must
include time breakdowns of both clinical and non-clinical work; and
vii) all other documents or information that may be required by AFPM as
set out in the application forms for the relevant programmes or
examinations.
Duplicated descriptions of posts will not be considered by the Censor

Board.
A censor or delegate (which may include a staff or member of the AFPM)

may take reasonable steps to verify information provided by a candidate
to ensure the integrity of the information provided.

Any false or misleading information will result in a candidate’s application
being rejected or a candidate being barred from the programmes and/or
examinations and/or from being awarded the respective award of
recognition. The Censor Board finds it a serious offence when a candidate
has provided, or is discovered to have provided, AFPM with false,
incomplete or misleading information (including giving false information
with regards to the place of practice and nature of practice) or to have
omitted any relevant or material information.

Full time General Practice or Primary Care
Full time general practice or primary care is thirty-eight (38) hours work
performed per week in typical general practice or primary care activities.
Full time general practice or primary care must be spread over a minimum
of four (4) days per week. Full time general practice or primary care will
also be capped at thirty-eight (38) hours per week. Working longer hours
in a week will not reduce the overall general practice or primary care
experience required. For example, a candidate that works fifty (50) hours
per week will still need to work the number of years needed according to
the requirement for the exams.
Full time work over the course of twelve (12) months may include up to
four (4) weeks of annual leave.
3. Part time General Practice / Locum

General practice or primary care experience which meets the requirements
below will be calculated on a pro-rata basis by the hours worked.
Part time experience in general practice or primary care must be a

minimum of:–
i) twelve (12) hours of work per week;
ii) over two (2) days per week with no periods of work shorter than three
(3) consecutive hours; and
iii) one (1) month in any one (1) practice.
Full time locums held for more than three (3) months are typically assessed
as fully comparable, with no cap on the general practice or primary care
experience time that will be recognised.
Full time locum posts held for a minimum of one (1) week and less than
three (3) months in any one (1) practice are typically assessed as fully
comparable up to a cap of two (2) years.

Work performed in part time locum posts will be eligible to be recognised
as general practice or primary care experience when the post fulfils the
minimum requirements of part time as written above and the candidate
works in the post for at least one (1) month. The maximum recognition
available is one (1) year full time equivalent of general practice or primary
care experience, with discretion where continuity of care can be
demonstrated.
All locum hours to be documented according to AFPM’s template and
submitted with exam application forms – refer to the template on AFPM’s
website.
A patient care logbook of 100 consecutive cases (see template below)

(“Patient Care Logbook”) may be requested by the Censor Board if there is
any doubt regarding the nature of practice.

Proof of practice as general practice or primary care requires the case
notes/records to contain the following: –
1. Evidence of being first point of contact to be consulted by patient
2. Evidence of comprehensive whole-patient care
3. Evidence of chronic disease management with follow-up (continuity of
care)
4. Evidence of coordination of care (referrals and feedbacks)
5. Evidence of ongoing preventive health care e.g. immunisations etc.
6. Evidence of managing patients with multiple co-morbidities
7. Mental health care
8. Paediatric health care
9. Women’s health care
10. Men’s health care
11. Geriatric health care
12. Palliative health care
13. Surgical conditions
14. Emergency conditions
15. Opthalmological cases
16. Otolaryngological cases
The Censor Board shall have the discretion to further assess the relevant
requirements as and when required on a case by case basis if deemed
necessary.

5. Experiences Recognised as Equivalent to General Practice or Primary Care
The following types of experiences are recognised as equivalent to general
practice or primary care for the period indicated: –
No Experience Recognition
General practice or primary care Full recognition for full time

1 clinics / Residents/Medical
Officers – provided that the clinics meet the
Primacy Care clinics of universities AFPM
requirements
Government Health Centers/ Klinik

2 Kesihatan Full recognition
Primary Care clinics under the Ministry

3 of Full recognition
Defence
Recognition of ½ the time up to a

4 Public Health / Community Medicine maximum of 6
months
Occupational & Environmental Recognition of ½ the time up to a

5 Medicine maximum of 6
months
Casualty / A&E / Emergency Recognition of ½ the time up to a

6 Departments maximum of 6
(government and private) months
Specialist Clinical Units / District Recognition of ½ the time up to a

7 hospital maximum of 6
posting months
Outpatient Department in Recognition of ½ the time up to a

8 Government maximum of 6
months. Full recognition if a Family
hospitals or staff clinics Medicine
Specialist is present.

Outpatient Department in private Recognition of ½ the time up to a
9 medical maximum of 6
centers months

10 Night time locum (overnight) maximum of 6
months
Part time Family Practice / Locum in Recognition of up to a maximum of 1

11 general year
equivalent of full-time general practice
practice or primary care primary
Care

12 Teaching in Family Medicine maximum of 6 months if
no clinical work is involved.
If teaching in family medicine
– (academic
general practice or primary care) is
undertaken concurrently with at least
three
(3) half-day sessions of clinical
service
(general practice or primary carework)
or a
minimum of twelve (12) hours per week
then
it is recognised as half the time with
no
capping on duration.
If teaching in family medicine
– (academic
general practice or primary care) is not
more
than three (3) half-day sessions or twelve
(12)
hours a week and the rest being

clinical
general practice or primary care work,
then
full recognition may be given.
Part time/locum duration for trainees
– will not
be capped.
Recognition for experiences gained under categories 4 to 9 shall not total more
than eighteen (18) months.

6. The following types of medical practices are not recognised as equivalent
to general practice or primary care:
– Diagnostic centres, laboratories or health screening centres
– Blood banks or dialysis centres
– Aesthetic centres or wellness clinics
– Homeopathy, complimentary and/or alternative medicine clinics
– Klinik 1 Malaysia / Klinik Bergerak 1 Malaysia /Klinik Komuniti
– Pharmaceutical companies
– Sports medicine clinics/ Spine and joint specialist clinics
7. Practising specialists in other disciplines are barred from enrolling into the
GCFM and ATFM Programmes and sitting for any of the related
examinations offered by the AFPM under such programmes even if they
show proof of locum in general practice or primary care. Their eligibility will
only be considered if they have left their specialty practice and have
worked full time as general practice or primary care doctors for the
duration required for examination eligibility. If they have been found to
revert to specialty practice at any time during the period of general practice
or primary care, they will be disqualified from the GCFM and ATFM
Programmes and barred from sitting for the GCFM Final Professional
Examination and/or ‘Conjoint MAFP/FRACGP Examinations’.
8. In cases where further assessment is needed regarding general practice or

primary care experience, the Censor Board may request a Patient Care
Logbook (see template below). If deemed necessary, a practice visit will be
made for further assessment. See “What is General Practice?” page for
further information on what constitutes general practice or primary care.
Candidates without adequate general practice or primary care experience
(as set out in the ‘Entry and Examination Criteria’ and this ‘general practice
or primary care Assessment Policy’) will be barred from GCFM Final
Professional Examination and/or Conjoint MAFP/FRACGP Examinations.

9. Candidates are required to take note that the Chief Censor of the AFPM
reserves the right to add, remove or make changes to the eligibility criteria,
policies, rules and regulations of any of the examinations offered by AFPM
as and when considered necessary by AFPM, in consultation and with the
agreement of the Chief Examiner and the Censor Board.
10. Candidates are advised to apply and write in early to the Chief Censor if in
doubt of their eligibility.

PATIENT CARE LOGBOOK
No Date Patient Age Sex Race Patient status Family Reason History P / E Provisional Investigation Management
Initial / ID New / F / U Doctor for Diagnosis
Y/N encounter
Source: Patient Care Logbook Adapted from AFPM Practice Diary
Acknowledgements:
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners for GP experience policies
The Board of Examiners, Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia

Appendix (iii)
Change of Contact / Address & Policy
If at any stage you change your mailing address, contact telephone number or e-
mail address, it is your responsibility to ensure that you formally notify AFPM /
Medibase. This can be done by submitting a written request for a change of the
above. AFPM / Medibase takes no responsibility for ensuring that such details
are current and will not accept responsibility if any communication fails to reach
you.
A notification of a change of address will not be accepted by telephone. The

notification must be in writing or transacted online.
If you have queries related to the GCFM Programme, please contact:
Medibase Sdn Bhd

(Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia)
Unit 1-5, Level 1, Enterprise 3B, Technology Park Malaysia,
Lebuhraya Puchong-Sungei Besi, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur.
Telephone: 603-8993 9176 / 603 89939177
Fax: 603 8993 9187
Email: afpm@po.jaring.asia
Website: www.afpm.org.my
The information given in this handbook is subject to change at the discretion of

AFPM / Medibase. AFPM / Medibase reserves the right to withdraw/alter /
amend / add / delete modules, fees, calendar schedules, venues, rules and
regulations, etc. as deemed appropriate / necessary.

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GRADUATE

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

Item Content Pages

1. Introduction to the Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine

3. Council of the Academy 12

4. Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine: – 14

6. Fees & Financial Policy 23 - 24

7. Academic Policy, Methods and Rules & Regulations 25

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

Welcome to the Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine (GCFM) Programme,

Information contained here is subject to change at the discretion of AFPM /

Medibase Sdn Bhd

Telephone: 603-8993 9176 / 603 89939177

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

5 | Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

Associate Professor Dr Chandramani Thuraisingham

7 | Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

Good luck in your training.

Professor Datin Dr Chia Yook Chin

9 | Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

I would like to welcome you to the Intake 27(January 2022)

10 | Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

Welcome on board intake 27 (January 2022 ) to the Graduate Certificate in Family

This two-year (4 semesters) distance-learning programme is a preliminary step to

Dr Aishah Bte Mohd Zain

11 | Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

GCFM FACULTY MEMBERS

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

Dr Navin Kumar – Member

ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANISATION OF MEDIBASE

13 | Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

1. ACADEMY OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS/MEDIBASE:

The Academy was established as the College of General Practitioners of Malaysia

Medibase, as a subsidiary of AFPM was formed to assist in providing these

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

15 | Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

• To improve the health and wellbeing of individuals, families and

1.3 GCFM Objective:

1.3.1 General Objective:

1.3.2 Specific Objectives:

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

17 | Graduate Certificate in Family Medicine

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

2.1 Entry Requirements:

For a candidate to be eligible to enroll for the GCFM Programme, such

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

2.2.3 The completed application form, together with certified certificates

2.2.4 Upon submission of application forms, the following payments

(ii) Non- refundable processing fee for each programme

2.2.5 No cash payment will be accepted. All payments may be made by

Intake 27 (Jan 2022)

2.2.8 If the application is not approved, Medibase will inform the

2.2.9 Candidates’ registrations may be cancelled if statements made by