Our mock exams are meticulously crafted to comprehensively tackle a wide range of challenges that candidates may encounter.
Mocks are designed with a focus on realism and relevance, simulating the conditions and content that candidates will face in their actual examinations.
By incorporating a diverse array of questions and scenarios, our mocks provide an opportunity for candidates to strengthen their understanding, improve their skills, and build confidence.
Feedback is integral to our process, ensuring that candidates can identify their strengths and areas for improvement. This holistic approach ensures that candidates are thoroughly prepared, boosting their chances of success.
A simulator paired with a qualified examiner, providing an all-encompassing preparation experience. This pairing not only mimics exam conditions but also allows the examiner to focus entirely on the candidate's performance. The simulator emphasizes delivering high-quality patient simulation and constructive feedback.
All simulators are native English speakers, allowing participants to engage with authentic British accents. This exposure enhances their familiarity and confidence when facing the actual exam. Many candidates often do not employ UK accents in their English communication, leading to potential misunderstandings and a drop in confidence.
For most mocks, there is not a focus on preparing candidates for the exam’s timing, particularly in regards to signposting the 2 minutes remaining. Timing is a key part of this exam and is one of the key qualitative marking criteria as per the GMC Guidelines for the exam. We make sure all our mocks are timed in the same manner as the exam. We provide our feedback at the end and minimise interruptions so candidates become accustomed to going from station to station.
Many candidates are unfamiliar with the GMC Guidelines and do not sufficiently focus on the 3 Quantitative domains:
Data Gathering, Technical and Assessment skills
Clinical Management Skills
Interpersonal Skills
There is also a limited focus on the 10 qualitative domains:
Language, Listening, Rapport, Management, Diagnosis, Examination, Findings, Time, Issues, Consultation
Following their examination, participants will receive detailed oral and written feedback, with written comments aligned with GMC Guidelines and the official marking criteria. Our feedback addresses each quantitative domain separately and for each station.
All candidates will receive written feedback similar to below after each mock exam. They will be provided with a checklist for quantitative and qualitative domains as well as written comments
Data Gathering skills are crucial, as candidates must efficiently collect relevant patient information through effective communication and active listening. This involves taking comprehensive patient histories and interpreting clinical findings accurately. Candidates must be able to rule out differentials and ask relevant follow up questions
Technical skills are tested by assessing candidates' ability to perform clinical procedures safely and competently, demonstrating proficiency in skills such as taking blood samples, performing basic life support, and using medical instruments correctly.
Assessment skills are also critical, as candidates must analyse gathered data to make informed decisions regarding diagnosis and management plans. This includes evaluating patient symptoms, understanding test results, and considering differential diagnoses while ensuring patient safety and care quality.
Providing patient-centred care involves a range of skills that prioritize the needs and preferences of patients while ensuring they receive the best possible medical treatment. Here are some key skills and considerations relevant to this approach:
Effective Communication: Clear and empathetic communication is vital. Healthcare providers must listen actively to patients, ensuring they understand their concerns, preferences, and values. This helps in building trust and rapport, which are essential for effective patient-centred care.
Awareness of Management Plans: Healthcare professionals should be knowledgeable about various management plans and treatment options available for different conditions. This includes understanding the benefits and risks associated with each option, which allows for informed discussions with patients about their choices.
Individualized Care: Recognizing that each patient is unique, providers should tailor management plans to fit individual circumstances. This involves considering factors such as the patient's medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences, ensuring that their care is truly centred around their needs.
Referral Processes: When specialized care is necessary, knowing when and how to refer patients to other healthcare professionals is crucial. This might include specialists, physical therapists, or mental health professionals. Effective referrals ensure that patients have access to comprehensive care and resources.
Signposting: Healthcare providers should guide patients to relevant resources, services, and support systems. This might involve providing information about community resources, support groups, or educational materials that can empower patients in managing their health.
Safety Netting: It's essential to establish safety nets for patients, particularly those with complex or chronic conditions. This involves providing clear instructions about what to watch for in their symptoms and when to seek further help. Ensuring patients understand follow-up plans and the signs of potential complications can prevent adverse outcomes.
Cultural Competence: Being aware of and sensitive to cultural differences is crucial in patient-centred care. Providers should strive to understand the cultural backgrounds of their patients and how these may influence their health beliefs and behaviours.
By integrating these skills into practice, healthcare providers can enhance the quality of care they deliver, ensuring it is patient-centred, comprehensive, and responsive to the individual needs of patients.
Interpersonal skills refer to the abilities that enable effective interaction and communication with others. These skills are crucial for demonstrating a candidate's capability to work within the UK healthcare system.
Candidates are assessed on their ability to communicate clearly and compassionately with patients, families, and colleagues. This includes active listening, empathy, non-verbal communication, and the ability to convey information in a way that is understandable and reassuring.