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MRCS Part B OSCE is the second and final exam that must be cleared by candidates in order to achieve the Membership of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons. The objective of this exam is to assess whether the surgical trainee has the correct knowledge, skills, and attributes to progress beyond basic training to a higher level of specialist surgical training.
What makes MRCS Part B challenging?
Unlike the written exams, the OSCE tests practical skills, clinical decision-making, and communication in a real-world format. But how difficult is the exam? Let’s have an in-depth look at the exam.
- Wide range of topics: The exam covers both applied knowledge and applied skills. It will test candidates on
Applied knowledge: anatomy, surgical pathology, applied surgical science, and critical care.
Applied skills: communication, history-taking, clinical examination, and procedural skills.
As the syllabus is large, you must start your preparation as early as possible to cover everything.
- Time-pressured format of the exam: The exam consists of 17 stations. You will get only 9 minutes to complete each station. So, candidates must quickly assess patients, perform procedures, or communicate effectively while staying calm under pressure.
- Communication and interpersonal skills: The exam involves giving and receiving information, including breaking bad news, explaining surgical procedures, and discussing management plans. These stations assess the clarity, empathy, and professionalism of candidates. These skills can be challenging even for those who have strong theoretical knowledge.
- Hands-on surgical skills: During the exam, candidates need to perform examinations, interpret investigations, and handle emergency scenarios. In OSCE, the exam requires more practical competence than theoretical knowledge.
So, overall, the MRCS Part B exam is difficult. But with proper preparation, it is passable. Even though you can retake the exam, it is expensive (at present, £1132.00 with RCS England), and no one wants to spend even more time revising for a retest.
How to prepare effectively
- Start your preparation as early as possible.
- Join a structured course that provides expert guidance.
- Practice OSCE-style scenarios under timed conditions.
- Improve communication skills.
- Join study groups to gain insights from others and clarify doubts.
- Improve time management to complete all stations efficiently.
To get the desired results in MRCS Part B OSCE, you need to incorporate all these study strategies and more. At StudyMRCS, we offer all these and more through our expert-led flexible courses and two-day live circuit programs. With live interactive classes and high-quality learning materials, including case templates, session recordings, and more, we will equip you with everything you need to crack the exam with ease. Connect with us to know more.
Authored By: Sarath
By : Admin
