My Experience of MRCEM Primary - Dr Behzad Rashid
- September 21, 2022
Are you an overseas emergency medicine doctor taking the postgraduate route to GMC registration through the MRCEM exams? Are you interested in sitting the exams in the future?
As part of IMG Stories, we introduce to you Dr Behzad Rashid, an emergency medicine doctor who has recently sat and passed the MRCEM Primary exam. Dr Rashid will be sharing with you his experiences of the first of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine exams, taking you through his preparation, experience of sitting the exam and sharing some hot tips for international MRCEM aspirants.
Tell us about yourself... what should the IMG Community know about Behzad Rashid?
I am a Resident Emergency Medicine Physician, currently working in Pakistan and have worked in A&E since completing my internship. I started off as a medical officer, and then began an A&E residency programme in my country. I would say a combination of hard work and fate are the reason why I am where I am today.
What motivated you to sit the MRCEM exams?
I had booked a space on the PLAB 1 exam, however, due to COVID, it was unfortunately cancelled (three times in fact). By the third time, I’d had enough. I decided to progress my career in Pakistan because I felt I wasn’t getting anywhere with the exam bookings, and everything was very uncertain at that time.
Even though time felt like it had stopped, it was actually flying by. I therefore decided to sit the residency exam in Pakistan. I worked in A&E at the time and had heard about the MRCEM exams from my colleagues. Due to the lockdown, they had just announced that the exam could now be taken online, even within the comfort of your own home. I was ready to go all in and grind my way through both exams, so I studied and succeeded in clearing both PLAB 1 and MRCEM Primary.
At what point in your career and training did you sit the MRCEM Primary exam?
There wasn’t anything in particular that made me realise that I was ready to sit this exam, besides the fact that COVID had been ruining my plans. I was going through a difficult time, and A&E was something I dearly wanted to pursue. I saw an opportunity, and I took it.
Applications can be frustrating… how did you find the application process for the exam?
The whole process took me about 30-45 minutes to complete. The details of application and exam are available on the website, and whilst a bit tedious, it is a straightforward process. Based on the RCEM’s eligibility criteria for the first exam, you only need to have graduated with an approved medical degree in order to sit the exam.
Since I was planning to sit the exam in my own country, I was provided with some options for exam centres. There were multiple private exam centres nearby, and I did not want to sit the exam at home and risk the internet issues others had experienced. I booked my exam for 8 am, because that's when I function best, and I would recommend that everyone books whatever time of day you think you would perform best.
How far in advance did you start preparing for the MRCEM Primary?
I booked the exam 4 months in advance (around the end of October, with the exam in Dec). Everyone has their own method of studying, and for some, this may not be enough time, so whatever schedule has worked for you in the past - stick to it. In my opinion this exam requires about 3-4 months of studying if you are unemployed or have any daily commitments, and about 5-6 months if you are working or have a very busy schedule.
Often IMGs are a bit at a loss to get support... did you benefit from speaking to senior colleagues or peers about the exam? Did you study with other candidates?
I was in touch with a few individuals who had already sat the exam. They guided me through the application process and resources I could use to prepare. They were also the ones who entertained my idea in preparing for both exams at once, and they believed that I could succeed in both.
You don’t need a lot of friends, just the right ones who will push and support you in your journey.
You were preparing for PLAB at the same time as the Royal College exams...how do you feel studying for PLAB 1 compares to your experience of MRCEM Primary?
PLAB 1 and MRCEM Primary are completely different exams.
PLAB 1 focuses on the application of medical knowledge in common day-to-day scenarios that a doctor would encounter in the UK. MRCEM Primary is more of a theoretical assessment of the basics i.e. anatomy and physiology of emergency related scenarios. This became even more apparent after I’d gone over the curriculum provided by the GMC and RCEM, which is honestly the best part of the exams. I would not say that one is easier than the other – they assess different things.
I focused on the blueprint/curriculum for each exam and made sure to get in as many MCQs as possible. That gave me a better overview of what I would actually be tested on.
Emergency medicine doctors are notoriously busy...in the months leading up to the exam, how much time did you spend a week on preparation?
In my case, I had to appear for the MRCEM Primary first, and then a week later for the Pakistan Residency (FCPS I) exam. Since work was extremely hectic, and I felt that I was not able to set aside much time to prepare for both, I quit my job to study for the exams and managed my time throughout the day to study and prepare for both (around 12 hours each day).
It goes without saying that any goal without a plan is just a wish. I divided my day into 2 halves where I would wake up at 5am, and study till 12pm, take a break (which included sleeping, eating or working out), then start off again at 5pm and go at it till 10pm. The first half would be MCQS and making Anki flash cards, second half would be to review the cards I had pending for that day. I would throw in a mock exam every week to see where I stood at that point, correct my mistakes and make cards on those as well. I stuck to this routine for 3 months and by the end of the 3 months, I had a deck of about 2000 Anki flash cards, divided into two groups for the 2 exams, and that is all I would review because I was confident that is all they would test me on.
How did you manage to juggle other commitments whilst studying for the exam (without panicking)?
During COVID, I was pretty much stranded by myself in Pakistan. My family lived in a different country, and I had limited interactions with the family I did have around me. This bizarre period of isolation and confusion gave me ample time to prepare for my exams. Being alone did get frustrating at times, and anxiety would creep up on me, but the hunger to clear my exams and progress my career gave me tunnel vision and cancelled out all the other noise.
The preparation for 2 examinations was an enlightening and humbling experience. My goal is to reach out to students and help them understand what works best for them. I’d be more than happy to provide students with any resources (Including my Anki flash cards) they need. However, there isn’t a cookie cutter plan that will suit everyone - I did what was best for me in my circumstances, and you must do the same.
What resources did you use to prepare and practice for the MRCEM Primary exam?
I used the curriculum provided by the MRCEM on their website which you will find here.
Along with that I was using the MRCEM Success question bank, which I have to say is an excellent resource. The actual exam was very close to the MCQs provided, which is why I would highly recommend it.
I am also an avid user of Anki. It has helped me ace exams in med school, the MRCEM primary, FCPS I and even the PLAB 1. I have never made any notes from any textbooks, and I honestly think hardcovers will eventually become obsolete. I would highly recommend making your own cards since that allows you to work at your own pace and address any weak points. I would love to share my own deck of Anki cards as well, which covers everything provided in the MRCEM curriculum. Feel free to add more to this deck and pay it forward.
Let's face it, exams are not everyone's favourite day out... so on the day of the exam, what did you do to relax?
I woke up early and decided not to go over any cards. I’m the type of exam-taker who enjoys working out and listening to music before an exam. At that point, I know what I know, and that is all I know. So I drank a nice cup of coffee and got some cardio done while listening to music.
What was your experience like on the day?
My exam was around 8:30am, so the drive was about 5 minutes to the exam hall and I got there around 30 minutes before it started. The invigilator was friendly and after leaving my personal belongings in a small locker, they provided a sheet of paper and stationary at the centre. The computer prompted me to start once the invigilator asked me to, and everything after that went smoothly. The invigilators are ready to help you with your queries if you experience any problems during the exam as well.
What was the most challenging part of the exam?
In my honest opinion, I did not come across anything that would throw me off. After going over the curriculum, and having a plan, I just stuck to that plan and followed it till the end.
In hindsight, would you have done anything differently?
I was already taking the most extreme measures by preparing for multiple exams and taking time off work, given everything was shut down during COVID. I have no regrets and cannot think of anything I’d have done differently.
What nuggets of advice would you give to any MRCEM Primary aspirants?
The best thing about the Royal College exams is that they provide a curriculum of what you should know, and they would never ask anything more than that. I would highly recommend you go over that and familiarise yourself with the content you will be tested on. Question banks might provide extra information to give you a different perspective of the subject, however the real exam sticks to its curriculum. If you know what you are required to know, preparation for the exam becomes easier.
What are your plans going forward?
I'm planning on appearing for the PLAB 2 and the MRCEM Intermediate soon. I have already started preparing my Anki deck for the intermediate as well, so wish me luck and stay tuned for that as well.
To learn more about the RCEM exams, see our IMG Resources library.
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Relevant Jobs
An outstanding opportunity for experienced Consultant in Emergency Medicine to join an NHS Trust that is committed to providing the best quality care to the people of East Sussex by attracting and recruiting passionate people who share this commitment. This Trust is one of the largest employers in the region and their members and staff are dedicated professionals whose work is varied, challenging and makes a real difference to people’s health and well-being.
The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
WHAT IS THE NHS TRUST LIKE?
The Trust is one of the largest organisations in the country and they employ over 6,000 dedicated staff with an annual turnover of £380 million who provides service to 525,000 people that live within the area. Their services are mainly provided from two district general hospitals, both have Emergency Departments and provide care 24 hours a day. They offer a comprehensive range of surgical, medical and maternity services supported by a full range of diagnostic and therapy services.
The role of the NHS Trust is to provide the best possible healthcare service to patients, who come first in everything the organisation does. Safe patient care is the Trust's highest priority. They will provide high quality clinical services that achieve and demonstrate optimum clinical outcomes and provide an excellent care experience for patients. The employees will be valued and respected. They will be involved in decisions about the services they provide and offered the training and development that they need to fulfill their roles.
They will operate efficiently and effectively, diagnosing and treating patients in timely fashion and expediting their return to health. They will use their resources efficiently and effectively for the benefit of their patients and their care to ensure our services are clinically, operationally, and financially sustainable.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The Emergency Department is a team of consultant that focuses on being on top of taking care of their patients. The department is open for hours a day, seven days a week for those seeking treatment for an urgent problem that may be caused by an accident or an illness. In the last year, there were 130,000 visits in their department.
Urgent Treatment Centres are being in developed nationally with the aim to provide same day ‘urgent treatment’ operating in a fully integrated way with the local community. The department has a vision is to provide an urgent care stream from the front door of the Emergency Department and develop innovative interoperable ways to ensure that the patients receive the right care at the right time and in the right place.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN THE REGION?
The region has a natural beauty. Sussex has some fantastic natural features such as the Seven Sisters National Park, and many areas of outstanding natural beauty that include the medieval heathland and forests of the High Weald. It also has beaches and harbours where people can go to during their dayoffs.
Besides its natural beauty, there's a rich array of accommodation options, ranging from the five star Grand Hotel on Eastbourne seafront to quaint B&Bs set amid beautiful Sussex countryside. East Sussex offers a rich array of culture, with art galleries such as the Jerwood Gallery in Hastings and the Towner Gallery in Eastbourne and an array of theatre and entertainment venues such as the De La Warr Pavillion in Bexhill, Congress and Deveonshire Park Theatres in Eastbourne and the White Rock Theatre in Hastings.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU?
The combination of clinical practice and first-class academic connections means that medical professionals have a wide range of opportunities to develop their careers and achieve their aspirations. You will have access to leadership, teaching, educational and research opportunities for Continued Professional Develop (CPD).
If you are a new consultant you will receive mentoring and support from medical leads as well as access to a large peer group of enthusiastic and high-caliber Consultants.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification in Emergency Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- FRCEM
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An excellent opportunity for a consultant in emergency medicine to join a large integrated care provider in North East England. The trust is high performing with a strong track record of supporting new appointees with career development.
Applications are welcomed from international candidates.
Trust overview:
The Trust is based on two acute sites with most acute medical services and specialties duplicated on each site.
The new appointee could be based at either site, preferences will be accommodated.
Service overview:
The Urgent and Emergency Care team encompasses five Urgent Treatment Centres, two Acute Medical Units including Same Day Emergency Care services and two Emergency Departments (ED).
With over 129000 ED attendances every year, the Trust is one of the largest services in the North East.
Local area:
You can be in the countryside in less than ten minutes from all major towns and cities in the area, with some of the most stunning scenery and outdoor space in the country.
There is a strong sporting and cultural heritage in the north east, so no matter what your interests are, there is something here for you to explore. For families, you will have access to fantastic school and academic institutions as well as very affordable properties.
The region is also known to be friendly, relaxed and welcoming.
Requirements for the post:
UK based applicants:
- Hold CCT, or within 6 months of completing CESR
- Specialist diploma
- Experience in Emergency Medicine
- MRCEM
- Consultant experience in emergency medicine
A fantastic opportunity for specialist in geriatric or elderly care medicine to settle into their first consultant post and work towards their CESR application, if that is the intention.
The hospital will consider senior consultants with no UK experience who are not on the UK specialist register for geriatric medicine.
The Geriatrics department is a small and manageable size with a 28 bedded inpatient ward and various other outlier beds.
Currently no formal geriatric outpatient services are offered with the exception of a Parkinson's / Movement clinic. The department will be looking to develop these in conjunction with skill set of a successful applicant.
The Geriatrics department comprises 3 consultants in elderly care medicine supported by 15 specialty registrars, 9 core medical trainees and FY2's and 9 FY1's working full shifts for GIM on call.
Each consultant will be offered a budget and 30 days of study and professional leave over each 3 year period to pursue their career development activities. Furthermore there is an active Postgraduate Medical Centre which acts as a focus for contract between doctors at all levels an in all disciplines.
Consultants will be encouraged to actively participate in teaching and training of juniors throughout their tenure.
Requirements of this position are:
- MRCP
- IELTS or OET
- Experience working at consultant grade in elderly care
Senior geriatric medicine specialists looking to work towards their CESR application or secure their first consultant role in the NHS are encouraged to apply
Overseas doctors with aspirations to work as NHS Consultants in Emergency Medicine (A&E) - doctors aspiring via the CESR route and particularly urged to apply. Doctors keen to enter Specialty Training at ST4 grade or those wishing to make direct CESR applications are welcome.
Total salaries offered a much higher than other hospitals based in the UK due to a total of 13 sessions available in ED.
These are flexible Specialty Doctor & Senior Clinical Fellow posts within in a busy and supportive Emergency Department in one of the more beautiful parts of the UK, but located within 30 minutes to the second largest city in Wales, Swansea.
The hospital is a District General Hospital with roughly 350 inpatient beds with a full set of ED equipment and facilities.
The hospitals facilities and equipment in the ED consist of resuscitation bays, X-ray, plaster rooms and treatment rooms giving immediate access to primary medical and surgical assessment treatment and care.
The Health Board serves a population of 389,000 and is leading the way for established CESR support and training for international doctors.
An established and successful CESR programme offered for MRCEM qualified doctors in Emergency Medicine.
Contrary to some popular myths - understanding of the Welsh language is not required to work in Wales and everyone speaks English as a first language!
Requirements to join are:
- MRCEM
- IELTS or OET (exemptions can be given)
- At least four years experience in Emergency Medicine
The Health Board offers support for both Tier 2 visa and is particularly welcoming of international candidates.
If you ar looking to start your career in the NHS and attain Specialist Registration and a Substantive Emergency Medicine Consultant positions - these really are fantastic opportunities.