How to succeed at MRCPsych CASC with PassTheCASC

  • July 04, 2024
 

In this blog, we’ll be covering some of the key aspects of the CASC exams, as well as introducing you to the team at PassTheCASC, an online learning and resource platform for MRCPsych CASC aspirants. We will be covering: 

AnchorWhat is MRCPsych CASC? 

Let’s begin with a quick recap of the CASC exam. The Clinical Assessment of Skills and Competencies or CASC is a practical exam which takes the format of an OSCE and tests your clinical skills in a range of competencies. 

It is made up of two circuits of individual stations made up of: 

  • Five stations on history taking, including risk assessment 
  • AnchorFive stations on examination, including physical and mental state 
  • Six stations on patient management 

For full guidance on the structure of the exam, visit the examination page of the Royal College website or see our detailed blog on the MRCPsych CASC exam here

Getting started with preparation

It can be tough to know the best place to start, psychiatry consultants (both IMGs and UK trainees) as well as the team at PassTheCASC, it seems the general consensus was that the Royal College website is the best place to begin. There are some great resources on their website to help applicants prepare for the exam. 

Why does MRCPsych CASC Matter?

The value of holding MRCPsych CASC cannot be understated, serving as both a symbol of your medical competence as a psychiatrist and giving you a competitive edge in the NHS job market. Attaining full MRCPsych demonstrates to potential employers that you have Anchorthe necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to provide high-quality care to patients. To secure and work in an NHS job at the Speciality Doctor grade, and above, many NHS Trusts will list MRCPsych CASC as essential criteria. 

MRCPsych also provides a stepping stone for further specialist training and can significantly enhance career prospects for international psychiatrists, more easily facilitating entry into more senior positions in the NHS, such as speciality doctor, the new specialist grade and consultant roles.  

What resources are available? 

IMG Connect have a library of written resources geared towards preparation for the CASC exam. If you’re interested in any of these, please get in touch here and we would be delighted to share these with you.  

IMG Psychiatrists MRCPsych CASC Crash Course

This is a tailored MRCPsych CASC course for overseas psychiatrists sitting the CASC exam. 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.

The course is supplemented by additional advice and guidance on MRCPsych CASC as a whole, GMC registration support, as well as guidance and webinars on other topics such as finding work in the NHS, relocation support and specialist registration.

You can access our IMG Psychiatrists CASC Study Course by joining the Facebook group here.

Partnering with PassTheCASC

As an exciting development in our provision of medical education, IMG Connect and PassTheCASC have forged a partnership to offer extensive support to overseas doctors preparing for the MRCPsych CASC exams. This collaboration aims to ensure your exam success through a series of exam-focused training videos and continuously evolving and up-to-date revision resources to keep pace with the demands of the MRCPsych CASC exams, along with discounts on revision course subscriptions. 

The 3-Keys

Consistency! In order to pass the MRCPsych CASC you must be consistent in your performance across all 16 stations.

We believe that consistency is unlocked with mastering ‘The 3-Keys’: Knowing Your Exam-self (Optimising your mindset), Knowing the Exam (Mastering your exam-technique) and Knowing the Subject.

Watch Dr. Mishra in an excerpt from Key 1: Know your Exam-self.
 

Tutorial Examples

All of the  PassTheCASC videos are accompanied by a related audio-visual tutorial revealing the succinct structure, relevant phrases, core clinical knowledge and key advice to ensure you excel in every station.

There are over 20 related Tutorials from Pass The CASC for candidates to learn with confidence for free on YouTube.

Remember, while this study plan serves as a roadmap, you should adapt it to suit your personal learning style and pace e.g., time available to prepare and external commitments. The aim is to ensure comprehensive understanding and effective retention of knowledge. 

CASC Simulator

Structure building! The ability to create and conduct a structured interview is critical for any candidate aiming to pass their MRCPsych CASC. The ‘CASC Simulator’ is specifically designed to help subscribers accelerate their development of this fundamental skill.

 

PassTheCASC - Your Companion in Success

Dr. Mrigank Mishra MBChB, MRCPsych, Dip CBT, the founder and owner of PassTheCASC. 

Mrigank is a UK trained Consultant General Adult Psychiatrist and University College London MRCPsych CASC course lecturer. He also holds a Diploma in Cognitive Therapy from the University of Oxford. His special interest is CASC teaching and in 2010 created the Complete Online MRCPsych CASC Revision Course: Pass the CASC.

All stations are conducted by Dr. Mishra, so unlike any other MRCPsych CASC course available, teaches a proven, consistent and systematic exam technique that can be applied across the wide range of scenarios encountered in the CASC. He also demonstrates the key Communication Skills assessed by examiners in every station. 


Dr. Uppal (West Midlands Deanery), a satisfied user, shared her experience:  

“I passed the CASC on my first attempt! I purchased Pass the CASC 3 weeks before the exam and it was my main source of revision. I wanted to thank Dr. Mishra and the team as I found the exam questions very similar to those discussed in the videos. I scored nearly 80% having passed 14 stations!”


Your Future Awaits

With your career goals within reach, embark on your journey towards conquering the MRCPsych CASC exams by subscribing to PassTheCASC. Utilise their resources and watch your preparation transform into success! 

For a walkthrough of the PassMRCPsych platform and resources, join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group

To receive the latest news and updates on all things psychiatry, including the MRCPsych, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.

 

I've passed, what’s next? 

Once you’ve passed MRCPsych CASC, you’ve completed the Royal College of Psychiatrists examination suite. Great stuff, this is a massive achievement! Armed with this and your English language test, you are ready to apply for full GMC registration with license to practice.  

You may want to start looking for NHS jobs and with the click of a button, you can receive them directly to your inbox. To receive jobs postings which you can tailor to your desired grade, specialty and sub-specialism, sign up here

 

            

 

 

Relevant Jobs

96,990 - 107,155

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.

160,000

An excellent job opportunity for an experienced Consultant Adult Inpatient Psychiatrist to join a private healthcare organisation near to Birmingham. This role is based within a well-established inpatient setting, offering a great chance to advance your medical career and earn a higher salary compared to the NHS. This job provides CESR Portfolio Pathway support, welcoming international applications from IMGs.

Working in Private Healthcare
This private organisation is recognized for its commitment to delivering exceptional mental health services. They are known for its multidisciplinary approach, working collaboratively to provide holistic, patient-centric care. Specializing in general adult psychiatry, they focus on promoting recovery and improving the quality of life for its patients. The team is dedicated to ongoing innovation and quality improvement, ensuring that the highest standards of care are consistently met. This job offers a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic team that values professional development and excellence in clinical practice.

The Psychiatry Department & Team
The Psychiatry Department has a 10-bedded ward for psychiartric intensive care unit for females of working age, and another 9-bedded ward for acute service which provides treatment for females of working age. The department is comprised of a multidisciplinary team dedicated to providing comprehensive inpatient care for adults with severe mental health conditions. The team includes consultants, junior doctors, psychologists, nurses, and allied health professionals, all working together to deliver evidence-based treatments. The department is committed to fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, where every team member plays a vital role in patient care.

The approach emphasizes continuous improvement and innovation, with regular team meetings and clinical governance sessions to ensure the highest quality of care.

Continued Professional Development:

This job offers further training & accreditation within general adult psychiatry, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. They support its medical staff in pursuing their professional goals, providing access to a wide range of CPD opportunities, including in-house training programs and supervision. This commitment to professional development ensures that consultants are well-equipped to advance in their careers while delivering the highest standard of care to their patients.

Location
This private healthcare organisation is located in the midlands not fare from Birmingham. The area boasts a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for those relocating. It is a safe and family-friendly area with excellent schools, a rich cultural scene, and plenty of recreational activities. The region is known for its natural beauty, with easy access to national parks and outdoor pursuits. Additionally, it has excellent transport links, making it easy to connect with other parts of the UK.

Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:

  • Experience in General Adult Psychiatry
  • CCT (Preferred)
  • Section 12 
  • AC Status (Preferred)

EEA candidates: 

  • Experience in General Adult Psychiatry
  • European Specialist Qualification

Non-EEA candidates:

  • MRCPsych
  • Experience in General Adult Psychiatry
99,532 - 131,964

An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced psychiatrist to join this NHS Trust as a Specialist Doctor working in a community psychiatry setting in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome.

The NHS Trust

The NHS Foundation Trust is a renowned provider of integrated healthcare services, covering a broad spectrum of care. The Trust is committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care and has received accolades for its innovative approaches and excellent clinical outcomes. As part of the NHS, the Trust ensures comprehensive mental health services, physical health care, and specialist services to the community. Their robust partnership with local authorities and healthcare providers enhances their service delivery, making it an exceptional place for medical professionals to grow and make a significant impact.

The Department & Team

The Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) team is a forward-thinking, dynamic department. The team provides community-based services to young people up to 18 years old. The department includes a mix of professionals, such as a substantive consultant, trainees, non-medical prescribers, and a well-resourced multidisciplinary team (MDT). The service boasts various specialized programs like the Mental Health in Schools teams, CAMHS Psychiatry Liaison, and Enhanced Support services. Pebble Lodge, the CAMHS inpatient unit, holds an outstanding rating from the Care Quality Commission, reflecting the high standards of care provided.

Continued Professional Development

This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The NHS Foundation Trust supports continuous professional development with structured training programs, opportunities for research, and participation in innovative projects, ensuring doctors can advance their careers and contribute to service development.

Location

The area is a vibrant coastal town known for its stunning beaches, beautiful parks, and a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The area offers a high quality of life with excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and affordable living costs. With easy access to natural areas of beauty and efficient transport connections to major cities, it is an ideal location for international doctors and their families seeking a balanced lifestyle in the UK.

??????Am I eligible for this role?

UK based candidates:

  • Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychistry

EEA candidates: 

  • Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychistry
  • European Specialist Qualification

Non-EEA candidates:

  • MRCPsych
  • Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychistry
99,000 - 31,000

An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant Psychiatrist to join this NHS Trust in the West of England as a Consultant working in an established acute psychiatric ward in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome.

The NHS Trust

This NHS Trust provides Community Health, Mental Health, Social Care, and specialist Learning Disability services. Formed from the merger of two previous trusts, it has been operational since October 1, 2019, and received a ‘Good’ rating from the CQC in 2022. This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to enhancing patient outcomes.

The General Adult Psychiatry Department & Team

The General Adult Psychiatry department includes acute wards, a PICU, a low-secure unit, and a Hospital-Based Place of Safety. The Consultant Psychiatrist will lead a multidisciplinary team, including a Specialty Doctor, Foundation Doctor, Core Trainee, and nursing staff. Responsibilities include direct patient care, consultation, and supervision of junior doctors, ensuring comprehensive management plans for inpatient treatment and community reintegration. The department is recognized for its high standards, receiving accolades and accreditations from the Royal College of Psychiatrists and the Healthcare Commission.

Continued Professional Development

This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within General Adult Psychiatry, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interest. Opportunities for teaching, research, clinical governance, and quality improvement projects are integral to the role. The Trust supports continuous professional development with dedicated training for educational and clinical supervision, participation in job planning reviews, and providing resources like a full-time medical secretary, dedicated office space, and modern IT facilities.

Location

This region in the West of England offers an excellent quality of life for international doctors and their families. The cost of living is relatively affordable, and the area boasts a variety of good schools, making it an ideal location for families. The region is rich in history and culture, with numerous attractions, including historic landmarks, museums, and festivals. It is surrounded by beautiful natural areas, perfect for outdoor activities. With excellent transport links, including proximity to major motorways and direct train lines to major cities, this region is well-connected, offering the best of both urban and rural living in the UK.

Am I eligible for this role?

UK based candidates:

  • CCT or Specialist Registration (preferred)
  • Experience in General Adult Inpatient Psychiatry 
  • S12
  • AC (preferred)

EEA candidates: 

  • Experience in General Adult Inpatient Psychiatry
  • European Specialist Qualification

Non-EEA candidates:

  • MRCPsych (preferred)
  • Specialist/Consultant Experience in General Adult Inpatient Psychiatry
110,257 - 164,372

We are looking to recruit a Consultant Psychiatrist to a Crisis & Assessment Team role in the Channel Islands, a UK territory sitting off the coast of France and just a 1 hour flight from London. This job presents a great opportunity to advance your medical career in the UK.

The health service, separate from the NHS, is an integrated, taxation-funded system, free at the point of delivery, managed by the Health and Community Services Department on the island. Key benefits of working there are higher salaries than the NHS, lower taxes and sunnier weather.

Consultant Pay range - £110,257 to £164,372
Single rate of tax - 20%.

The Department & Team

The Crisis and Assessment Team (CAT) serves as the primary gateway to adult and older people\'s mental health services, conducting assessments in the community and emergency settings, alongside medical reviews. They collaborate closely with law enforcement, responding to Adult Protection Notices and coordinating mental health law assessments. This role within the CAT focuses on streamlining referrals, providing short-term crisis interventions, and ensuring individuals receive appropriate ongoing care. You\'ll engage with both working-age adults and older adults, with responsibilities extending to police referrals and mental health law assessments during standard working hours, with on-call commitments.

Continued Professional Development

Professional development is integral to their ethos, offering CESR Portfolio Pathway support, access to specialty training, and opportunities for sub-specialist development. They prioritize ongoing learning through conferences, local CME events, and a generous study leave allowance.

Life in the area

Living in this location offers significant financial benefits. The flat income tax rate of 20% is notably advantageous compared to the UK, and a generous public sector pension scheme is provided, not constrained by UK lifetime or annual contribution limits. The consultant contract closely mirrors the UK model but offers higher incremental levels starting at £110,257 and with a top basic salary of £164,372.


Am I eligible for this role?

UK based candidates:

  • Experience in General Adult Psychiatry
  • Specialist Registration or locum consultant experience

EEA candidates: 

  • Experience in General Adult Psychiatry
  • European Specialist Qualification


Non-EEA candidates:

  • MRCPsych
  • Experience in General Adult Psychiatry

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