Essential tips for the MRCPsych CASC exam - Dr Kevin Li
- January 07, 2022
Are you a psychiatrist finalising your revision for the MRCPsych CASC exam? Here are the tips you can't live without!
As you've likely got months of dedicated study behind you already, in the final push to the exam, we’re sharing some of the essential tips from Dr Kevin Li (MRCPsych) for your final days of preparation for CASC.
Mental state, history taking and risk assessment (8 stations)
It is important to demonstrate your clinical skills in assessing symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations.
Prepare for a cognitive examination station!
Management and counselling (8 stations)
Address any concerns or expectations early on in the station
Provide factual knowledge and information - some last minute reading up on topics such as ECT, psychiatric emergencies and ECG is very important!
For stations where you encounter angry patients or relatives, demonstrating good communication skills is more important than delivering lots of factual knowledge
Prepare stock phrases and questions
Empathetic statements
- I can appreciate this must be very difficult for you
- I understand that this must be quite concerning
Soft questions to elicit sensitive information
- How are you coping with...?
- Are you doing anything to manage the stress of the situation?
Phrases to manage angry situations
- I appreciate your concerns and why you feel let down
- We are all trying our best to help
Reflect on your manner and style of speaking
- It is important to try and demonstrate genuine empathy!
- Do not sound paternalistic or patronising
- Take an MDT approach where necessary - the clinical team is good backup where you don't know what to do e.g. next steps like admissions
- Always be courteous and do not show any anger or frustration
- Always look at and address the actor
Time management
Get yourself an analogue countdown timer to allow you to properly manage your time during the stations
Look the part
Dress professionally, as if you were speaking to a real patient (pick your outfit at least the night before)
Finally...
As much as it is important to practice a lot near the exam, it is equally important to relax the day before and morning of the exam. At that stage, try not to think about what you have not practiced or not read! You will have sufficient knowledge, it’s just about communicating it and executing it confidently.
We hope you find these tips helpful and wish you the best of luck in your exam. Don't forget to share your successes with us on social media using the hashtag #imgstories
Join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group to become part of a community of like-minded MRCPsych aspirants and dedicated psychiatry recruiters.
In the group you will find tailored resources for Psychiatry IMGs including our MRCPsych Crash Course.
This course offers weekly sessions covering the entire exam and its various domains, including marking and station requirements. This is accompanied by small group role play sessions to allow IMGs to practice stations across various scenarios with feedback on each station, delivered by an experienced NHS psychiatrist and specialist psychiatry recruiters. These sessions are completely free to all doctors.
You can access our IMG Psychiatrists CASC Study Course by joining the Facebook group here.
Get in touch
Passed the MRCPsych CASC exam? Get in touch with one of our dedicated psychiatry recruitment specialists here to discuss your next steps towards GMC registration, finding work in the NHS and relocating to the UK.
To receive the latest news and updates on all things psychiatry, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
Relevant Jobs
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
A CCT in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry or General Adult Psychiatry, or being within six months of obtaining one, is preferred for this role. Section 12 approval under the Mental Health Act is essential. Candidates with an interest in adolescent mental health care are encouraged to apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide clinical leadership for a general adolescent inpatient unit focusing on acute mental health needs and short-term treatment pathways.
- Lead multidisciplinary assessments, treatment planning, and case management for adolescents with complex mental health disorders.
- Supervise junior medical staff and contribute to training programs within the service.
- Participate in clinical governance activities, including audits and service development initiatives.
Located in the vibrant North West region of England, this role offers a blend of urban and rural living opportunities. With excellent transport links to major cities and nearby countryside, the area provides a variety of housing, leisure activities, and cultural experiences. Families will benefit from outstanding schools and ample recreational opportunities. The region also boasts a rich industrial and cultural history that shapes its unique character.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
- Document gathering and checking
- COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel arrangements
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full GMC registration, doctors with CCT or close to completing CESR, and those with AC and/or S12 are encourage to apply for this role. Anyone with an interest in community-based multidisciplinary services and patient-focused care should apply. The salary will be competitive and dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Lead and support the community mental health team in implementing transformation programs.
- Collaborate with primary care, voluntary sectors, and local providers to create integrated care systems.
- Provide patient care directly in the community while supervising and guiding the team on care pathways.
- Foster team development through training and shared clinical responsibilities.
This role is based in the West Midlands, a region known for its vibrant cities and scenic countryside. Popular areas include urban centers like Birmingham and quieter towns offering family-friendly environments. The region features excellent schools, diverse leisure activities, and strong transport links, including rail and international air connections.
Historically, this area has been central to Britain’s industrial and cultural growth, offering a rich heritage and modern lifestyle opportunities.
A hospital in the South West of England is looking for a Specialty Doctor in Psychiatry with an interest in community-based acute mental health care. The psychiatry department is well-supported by a comprehensive Home Treatment Team (HTT) and a wider multidisciplinary network. This role is open to both international and UK-based doctors, particularly those with Section 12 Mental Health Act approval or equivalent qualifications from recognized psychiatric bodies.
Candidates requiring support for CESR portfolios will be considered on an individual basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- Candidates must hold GMC registration and have a minimum of 3 years of psychiatric training or equivalent experience.
- The post is suited to doctors with an interest in mental health crisis care and alternatives to inpatient admission.
- The salary will range between £52,530 and £82,400, depending on experience and grade.
- Conduct psychiatric assessments, including acting as a doctor in Mental Health Act evaluations.
- Work collaboratively with the Home Treatment Team to deliver high-quality, urgent care and reduce hospital admissions.
- Participate in weekly case and risk review meetings within a multidisciplinary setting.
- Engage in clinical governance activities, including audits and quality improvement initiatives.
The South West is renowned for its picturesque coastline, rolling countryside, and vibrant communities. Options for living range from coastal towns with bustling activities to serene rural villages.
The region boasts strong transport links, including rail connections to major cities and convenient access to motorways. Families will find a variety of schooling options, and the area offers numerous leisure activities, from outdoor pursuits to cultural events.
The South West has a rich history, with links to notable figures and contributions to tourism, literature, and maritime heritage in the UK.
A mental health provider in London seeks a Consultant Psychiatrist in Older Adult Psychiatry, with an interest in ECT and dementia care. The position is based on a 14-bedded ward within a newly established mental health campus, supported by a skilled multidisciplinary team. Applications from both international and UK-based doctors are welcome, with preference given to those with MRCPsych or equivalent qualifications.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS:
- GMC registration, Section 12 approval, and Approved Clinician status (or eligibility) are required.
- Relevant experience in older adult psychiatry is essential.
- The salary will be competitive, dependent on experience or grade.
- Lead a multidisciplinary team to provide high-quality care for older adults with psychiatric conditions.
- Manage and supervise the delivery of ECT services, ensuring compliance with clinical standards.
- Mentor and support trainee doctors in a teaching-focused environment.
- Contribute to service improvement initiatives through quality audits and projects.
This lively part of London combines the charm of urban living with access to serene suburbs and green spaces. Residents benefit from excellent schools, diverse cultural attractions, and efficient public transport connecting them to central London. The area’s rich history and modern amenities make it a popular location for professionals and families alike.
Here’s the anonymized version of the job advert:
A UK-based mental health provider is seeking a Senior Specialist in Psychiatry with an interest in memory assessment services for older people. The psychiatry department includes a skilled team of consultants and clinical nurse specialists, offering a supportive environment for career growth. This opportunity is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, with preference for those holding European Specialist training or MRCPsych qualifications.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- MRCPsych or equivalent qualification is required, along with a minimum of six years in relevant psychiatry roles.
- An interest in dementia and memory-related care is essential.
- The salary will be competitive, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide senior medical leadership within the Memory Assessment Service (MAS), overseeing complex cases.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to assess, diagnose, and treat dementia and related memory disorders.
- Supervise and mentor clinical staff and contribute to their professional development.
- Participate in service improvement and innovation initiatives.
LIFE IN THE REGION
The region offers a mix of urban living in vibrant towns and peaceful countryside settings, providing options to suit a range of lifestyles. It is well-connected by major transport links and boasts excellent schools, recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions for individuals and families. The area also has a rich history and cultural significance, adding to its charm as a great place to live and work.