GMC Registration can be a long and complex process. With several options available for overseas doctors to demonstrate evidence of their skills and knowledge, it might be difficult to decide the best route to take to register with the GMC.   For international doctors planning their route to the UK, the two most common and popular routes by far are the UK postgraduate qualifications (MRCEM for emergency medicine physicians) or PLAB. Here we provide a summary of both pathways and briefly consider their benefits to help you make the best choice in your journey to the UK as an IMG.  GMC Registration for Overseas Doctors PLAB for GMC Registration MRCEM for GMC Registration Which is better for me as an IMG: PLAB or MRCEM? #IMG Tips How do I get started? Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.  GMC Registration for Overseas Doctors Registering with the GMC is a multi-stage process, including key timings actions and documents. To receive full registration, international doctors must provide evidence of:   What is often the most long and challenging part of the process is providing sufficient evidence of skills and knowledge, however, you can check whether you have a GMC-accepted postgraduate qualification here.  There are 5 ways in which an overseas doctor can demonstrate their skills and knowledge:  PLAB  Acceptable Postgraduate Qualification / Licensing Examination  Relevant European Qualification  Sponsorship / MTI  CESR / CESR-CP / CEGPR  Please note that only one type of evidence is required to demonstrate skills and knowledge for GMC registration.  Of these routes, the most accessible are PLAB and the Acceptable Postgraduate Qualification because they are two of the only routes that do not depend on the country you’ve trained in – the UK postgraduate exams and PLAB can be sat by doctors.  For a detailed breakdown of all the routes available to IMGs, see our blog here.  PLAB - Professional & Linguistics Assessment Board The first and most common route we’ll be discussing, which is particularly popular among junior doctors, is PLAB.  PLAB is a two-part exam (one written and one practical element), which assesses whether a candidate is at least as capable as a doctor starting the second year of their Foundation Programme Training (FY2 or F2) and can therefore work safely as an SHO (Senior House Officer) in the NHS.  The GMC has produced a useful video summary of the PLAB exams which you can watch here, or for a more detailed overview, see our IMG Resources library.  MRCEM - UK Postgraduate Qualification for Emergency Medicine The UK’s postgraduate qualifications are a more popular route for senior overseas doctors, and those looking to gain posts in the NHS which are reflective of their experience.  For emergency medicine, this can be done by attaining Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine. The Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) is the professional body that regulates the specialism of emergency medicine in the UK, and Membership of the College of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM) is the full qualification attained through these examinations.  Take a look at our IMG Resources library for complete guides on MRCEM to learn more.  You can also read our interview with Dr Behzad Rashid to learn about the experience of an IMG Emergency Medicine resident going through MRCEM.  PLAB vs MRCEM Both MRCEM and PLAB are respectable routes that demonstrate skills and knowledge and will allow an international doctor to register with the GMC and work in the UK. To decide which route of the two is best for you, you’ll need to consider the benefits of each and how they align with your needs and priorities in moving to the UK.  Seniority of Positions in the NHS It would be difficult for an overseas emergency medicine doctor to obtain a more senior post in the NHS without either MRCEM, a GMC-approved training programme, or extensive experience from a similar English-speaking healthcare system. PLAB alone will not give overseas doctors access to senior posts in the NHS.  Training To practice as a consultant in the UK, you must have gone through specialty training and will need a GMC-recognised postgraduate qualification to do so, whether a qualification from the country in which you completed your specialty training, or MRCEM.  Due to the more specialised nature of MRCEM, we advise emergency medicine doctors to complete MRCEM, as many NHS Trusts will list MRCEM as a requirement on job descriptions. MRCEM also allows IMGs access to more senior roles and competitive salaries.   Time PLAB has two stages and can take anywhere between 3-9 months to prepare from start to finish.  MRCEM has three stages, the last of which must be taken after at least 24 months of postgraduate experience with at least 6 months in emergency medicine and can take anywhere between 24-36 months to prepare from start to finish.  Cost MRCEM costs £1,115 for the three exams. Whilst the Primary and Intermediate SBA exams are delivered worldwide via computer-based testing company, the OSCE is delivered in London (UK), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Kochi (India), so there may be the added expense of international travel.   PLAB costs £1,189, and whilst PLAB 1 can be sat in many overseas centres around the world, PLAB 2 is only delivered in the UK. You can find a list of overseas centres for PLAB 2 here.  So for both MRCEM and PLAB, candidates will have to travel to the UK, meaning that the additional cost of visas, accommodation and flights must be factored in.  It’s also important to note that these costs can rise if re-sits of the exams are necessary.  Summary PLAB, as an exam which examines a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO, does not assess ability in emergency medicine specifically. For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine, I.e., emergency medicine.  PLAB allows doctors to enter the UK system much faster than other routes and for this reason alone, it is favoured by international doctors when considering their path to the UK.  MRCEM involves three more difficult examinations and takes more time to prepare for. However, for overseas doctors, attaining MRCEM will allow you to jumpstart your career in the UK, as you don't need PLAB or Core Training.  Additionally, MRCEM will facilitate the application for more senior roles in UK emergency medicine than PLAB.  #IMG Tips Determine your priorities – your goals and timeline for relocating to the UK are important in deciding which route is best for, and this is different for everyone.  Plan well ahead – depending on the route you choose, you may be embarking on a long journey through these exams, so plan how you will fit them into your life and how best to prepare to maintain a good work-life balance at the same time.  Find a support network – once you know which exams you will sit, find a support network of others who are also preparing for the exam.   Sources https://rcem.ac.uk/exam-mrcem/  https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/plab  https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/before-you-apply/evidence-to-support-your-application  Getting started Once you’ve decided which exams are best for you, it’s time to delve deeper into the exams and what they entail. For more useful blogs and articles on PLAB or MRCEM, registrations and qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG Resources library.   Don’t hesitate to get in touch with one our recruitment specialists if you would like to discuss your options in the NHS once you have completed PLAB or MRCEM.   For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

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. For news and updates on all things emergency medicine, follow us on social media and join the conversation.             

To help make your MRCEM journey a success - here we’ll take a closer look at MRCEM Primary, including eligibility, dates, fees & exam centers. We will also provide some tips to give you the best chance of passing first time - giving you MRCEM success and moving closer towards full Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM).  Designed to help you prepare and sit the exam, we consider the following topics:  What is the MRCEM Primary?  What is the content and structure?  Can I sit the exam more than once?  What is the curriculum?  Am I eligible?  How can I apply? Where and when can I take the exam? How much will it cost me?  How do I prepare for each exam and what resources are available? Passed? What next?  What is the MRCEM Primary?  The MRCEM Primary Examination is the first examination in a series of three and is mapped to the Emergency Medicine 2015 Curriculum. You can find more detailed information provided in the RCEM Basic Sciences Curriculum (June 2010) which is available here or as a downloadable PDF. The MRCEM Part A has been replaced by the MRCEM Primary exam with effect from August 2016.  Completion of the MRCEM examinations (Primary/ Intermediate/ OSCE) results in the award of membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine.  The Royal College strongly advises all applicants to familiarise themselves with the Basic Sciences Curriculum when preparing to sit the MRCEM Primary Examination. General advice is to get to know the curriculum as early as possible and use it as a road map for your study plan.  What is the content and structure?  The MRCEM Primary exam consists of one 3-hour paper of 180 multiple choice, single best answer questions (SBAQs).  You must choose one best answer from a choice of five feasible answers.  The paper will examine all the domains of knowledge in the Basic Sciences Curriculum including: Anatomy Physiology Pathology Microbiology Pharmacology Evidence Based Medicine Can I sit the exam more than once?  Candidates are permitted a maximum of six attempts in which to pass the MRCEM Primary Examination.  Previous attempts at the MRCEM Part A examination prior to August 2016 do not count towards the number of available attempts.  The examination is conducted in English and candidates are advised that IELTS Level 7 is the expected standard for completion of the MRCEM examinations. Remember, you will need to have a pass of 7.5 average in all areas of IELTS to complete your GMC registration. What is the curriculum?  The blueprint for the MRCEM Primary Examination is as follows:  Category Sub-Category Questions Anatomy Upper limb  Lower limb  Thorax  Abdomen  Head and Neck  Central Nervous System Cranial Nerve Lesions 60 Physiology Basic cellular physiology Respiratory physiology Cardiovascular physiology Gastrointestinal physiology Renal physiology  Endocrine physiology 60 Pharmacology Gastrointestinal pharmacology  Cardiovascular system  Respiratory system  Central Nervous System  Infections Endocrine system  Fluids and electrolytes  Muscoskeletal system  Immunological products and vaccines Anaesthesia 27 Microbiology Principles of microbiology  Pathogen groups 18 Pathology Inflammatory responses  Immune responses  Infection  Wound healing  Haematology 9 Evidence Based Medicine Statistics Study methodology Principles of critical appraisal 6 TOTAL   180 Am I eligible?  To be eligible you must hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes. You do not need to be registered with the GMC to enter. Don’t forget! You may need a visa to enter a different country to sit the exam. Failure to check this could prevent you from sitting the exam and your examination fee will not be refunded. How can I apply? All applications are made online. Please note, the application can take some time to complete so it is always advisable to apply well in advance of the deadlines. Applications submitted after the application period will not be accepted.  Links to all application forms and application windows are available here. Where and when can I take the exam? How much will it cost me?  Exam dates and locations for 2019 are currently available, these are regularly updated by the Royal College and can be found here.  Examination Centre Fees MRCEM Primary Short Answer Question Paper   London, Dublin, Edinburgh, Leeds, Cardiff £310 Chennai, Hyderabad, New Delhi, Reykjavik, Kuala Lumpur, Muscat £390 How do I prepare for the exam and what resources are available? With lots of resources available online, we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams. See below:  Curriculum:  Applicants are tested on a range of common and important disorders in Emergency Medicine as set out in the Emergency Medicine Training Curriculum 2015. Information Packs: These provide detailed information for the relevant examination components so that you can best prepare for your studies and what to expect on the day: MRCEM Primary Sample questions:  Test your knowledge using example questions from the current exam syllabus provided by the Royal College, see below: • Primary – sample questions Glossary of Terms:  The royal college uses many terms that may cause confusion, so take plenty time to understand the terms and definitions used in this guide.  Candidates are expected to be rigorous in their use of these terms. Glossary of terms used in RCEM exams. Online resources:  There are lots of resources online, such as videos on YouTube, MRCEM courses and useful reading materials. We think that these are a great addition to your study plan, just be sure to check your sources.  For a useful overview of how to prepare for exams, including advice on study groups, online community support, best use of online resources & Royal College materials and courses, take a look at our blog: IMG Connects Top Tips for exam preparation  Passed? What next?  If you are completing the papers in order, the next step will be to apply for MRCEM Intermediate Certificate. For more information take a look at our blog where we explore MRCEM Intermediate and everything that you need to know about how to sit the exam, including syllabus, dates, results, fees and preparation.  IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.

Vacancies for Emergency Medicine doctors from outside the UK can be found in a variety of ways, which for some doctors can sometimes be time-consuming and confusing. Working with IMG Connect will give you easy access to vacancies for consultants, clinical fellows, registrars, specialty doctors, trust doctors, as well as LAS posts. The IMG Connect job search is a dedicated online recruitment service for overseas doctors looking to secure a job in the NHS. View our latest Doctor Jobs in the NHS, here.  Save time and get expert advice based on your preferences  Performing a job search online can take up a lot of your time, so at IMG Connect we are here to do the time-consuming work for you. Upon registering, you will have a dedicated consultant whose role is to find jobs that match your skills, and apply for NHS jobs on your behalf.  You can receive jobs updates by E-mail to view new posts to suit your job search every day. Create a profile – it takes 30 seconds It really is that easy, so why not take advantage of our resources, time and energy to find you the right job in the NHS suited to your preferences. By providing us with some key details we can quickly assess which jobs are best suited to your preferences, and even email you job alerts for new exciting roles which we think will interest you! We understand you, and our clients When looking for an Emergency Medicine job in the NHS, it can be hard to try to find out key information before applying, such as: What specialty specific training there will be?  Am I likely to get a training post after taking this role? Can the trust support CESR applicants and is their CESR programme established enough for my needs?  What career progression is available for me with the Emergency Medicine Specialty?  What is the job plan and how much time will I spend on the ward?  What is it like to work and live there?  What salary will I get paid, and can I get extra pay for additional shifts?  It can be tricky to get all the answers you want before applying online, so we spend our time getting to know both our clients and you, finding out as much key information as possible to help you to make the right decisions. Including details on the Emergency Medicine department, hospital & trust, as well as an overview of what it is like to live in the area, including housing and the cost of living, as well as access to schools for your children, childcare and finding work for spouses.  Making an impact We will also provide you with top tips on CV writing, job applications and interviews, ensuring that your application and interview makes the most impact with our NHS clients.  Making it personal  Once registered, you can quickly search and apply for NHS jobs using our job search, and take advantage of many useful articles written to support you through your journey to the UK. In addition, when you sign up to 'job alerts' we will automatically email you each time a relevant Emergency Medicine vacancy comes available that you may be interested in. Once logged in, you can also save job details and make applications.  By registering with IMG Connect, you will: Have a dedicated consultant who understands your preferences and will do the time-consuming job searches and applications for you. Find your ideal NHS position among thousands of unadvertised vacancies - from consultant to registrar, or specialty doctor to SHO.  Be the first to hear about new vacancies – registering with IMG Connect means that your CV will gain priority with our NHS clients, and will be professionally represented by international recruitment experts. To help you find a job in the NHS simply follow these easy steps: Register with IMG Connect Fill in the 'Personal details' section. Arrange a chat with your dedicated IMG Consultant  Sign up to receive 'job alerts’  Search our live emergency medicine jobs Searching for Emergency Medicine jobs in the NHS could not be easier If you want to find out more about the many Emergency Medicine roles available within the NHS - it only takes a minute to register with IMG Connect and receive expert advice and representation. We have helped many overseas Emergency Medicine into consultant, specialty doctor, registrar, clinical fellow and staff grade NHS roles, whilst offering expert guidance to many more IMGs on NHS doctor pay, royal college qualifications and English language testing. We’d be happy to help you! For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

The MRCEM OSCE exam requires a considerable amount of revision and preparation.... And we are often asked by Emergency Medicine doctors where they should look for MRCEM OSCE resources, online revision materials, mock stations and preparation courses. Here we compile the best advice, tips, courses and resources available for the Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM) OSCE exam whilst also address some understandable concerns about the effect of COVID-19 on availability of test centres and upcoming exams. What is the MRCEM OSCE? The MRCEM OSCE consists of 18 stations (16 patient encounters & 2 rest stations), each one lasting for about 7 minutes. The MRCEM OSCE exam will not only test your theoretical knowledge, but also your resus skills and communication skills. Even candidates who are working in an emergency medicine department (ED or ER) often find these OSCEs difficult. Even if you have strong background knowledge in Emergency Medicine the exams can still be tricky due to a heavy reliance on testing your communication skills and etiquette.  Preparation is therefore vital for all doctors who intend to take the MRCEM OSCE (part C) exam. This can be broken down into the following:  Practical day-to-day work (colleague observations & feedback, peer groups, study groups)  Online revision resources (subscriptions, reading materials, tutorials, videos) Courses (face to face, online) In general, emergency medicine course tutors advise setting aside at least 2-3 months preparation in addition to your Emergency Medicine experience. How has the COVID-19 coronavirus afffected MRCEM exam centres & dates? The Royal College of Emergency Medicine took the difficult decision to cancel all events for the months of April, May and June following the escalation of the virus. As the UK and most of the world remain in some form of lockdown, the Royal College has not announced when it is expecting to open up it's centres again. Understandably this will be tied into government advice and that of the WHO whilst most examiners involved in the OSCE examinations will be tied into urgent clinical duties. IMG Connect is keeping a very close eye on the examination schedule and will keep all our IMGs informed as soon as the College publishes some updates. You can find the updated exam schedule here. However, this does not mean you cannot use the time to prepare for your OSCE! So how to get started? The first step is to ensure you are familiar enough with the Royal College of Emergency Medicine Curriculum (2015), and to use this to create your study plan covering the whole curriculum, whilst also identifying areas of weakness to strengthen.  Take a look through Mastering Emergency Medicine – a practical guide to re-enforce your solid background in Emergency Medicine knowledge before you start approaching the stations. Note that this book was first published in 2009, and some aspects may be slightly outdated.  Familiarise yourself with the stations, techniques and format by watching online videos and tutorials - you can find both free and paid tutorials online.  YouTube has many great videos available to get you started, covering basics of examination and OSCE guides through to mock OSCE scenarios:  Mcleods Examination videos (Basics of examination) OSCE guides - Geeky Medics   Bromley webinars and tutorials  Watching these videos before you start your practice sessions (and then repeatedly throughout your study plan) will give you a huge boost.    Resources for MRCEM OSCE General advice is to use a variety of resources, including reading materials, online subscriptions to videos and tutorials, podcasts and videos. The following have helped IMGs on their journey to successful completion of the MRCEM OSCE:  Bromley Emergency Courses online tutorials:  Revision communication videos  Revision examination videos Revision procedure videos  MRCEM OSCE course Podcast Geeky Medics – Emergency Medicine Practical work - peer groups and senior colleague observations The best way to practice and solidify what you have learnt from your studies is to organise group sessions and observations at work. Observations at work  Ask senior colleagues to observe and offer feedback to you on a regular basis on the EM ward. Receiving quality feedback in a formal setting is widely regarded as fundamental to your advances in emergency medicine practice.  Group sessions When organising a peer group of Emergency Medicine OSCE aspirants, advice is to have a maximum of three/four persons per group. Three works very well because you can each play a role during role play sessions.  When conducting role plays, you may want to organise yourselves as follows:  Patient (use instructions for the actor provided in the textbooks, remember each patient has a backstory and there are many aspects the actor must show, including emotion) Exam Candidate Examiner (takes notes, observes, marks the checklist and gives immediate and detailed feedback on all aspects of the marking sheet) Remember to take turns and swap roles, work as the patient, exam candidate and the examiner. Stick to the exam format, for example set a time limit of about 7 minutes which will allow you to get a clear understanding of how to pace yourself and finish before 7 minutes. Remember not to be too fast, or too slow, helping you to make every second count. Feedback is crucial to improving your practice. As you practice together, look at the checklists after you perform each station and find out if you are missing anything.  When taking up the examiner role ensure to give detailed feedback covering all marking criteria (intro, examination, body language and winding up - the four key areas that can improve your score). Once the examiner has delivered their feedback, discuss as a group, considering how to improve in all aspects of the exam criteria.  Build stamina Once you have a routine in place for peer group practical OSCE simulations, build up towards completing a full set of stations. This should be done for each member of your group. The exam can be tiring, which can in turn affect your performance on the day of the exam. For example, if exhausted at the final stations, it can be hard to maintain your clear communication and positive body language, so a full run through will help you to understand what it will be like on the day and what you need to do to ensure that you are consistently performing.  Record sessions Try recording your group scenarios. IMGs who have done this repeatedly informed us that this was one of the single most important methods for seeing first-hand how to improve. We are after all our own worst critics! Take notes on the way you enter the room, move, talk, express yourself, your non-verbal cues, body language and interactions. Take a course  There are various workshops organised by expert course tutors in Emergency Medicine designed to help you pass. You can find these online and anecdotal evidence suggests that taking a face to face course improves your chances of passing the MRCEM OSCE exam.  Speak to an IMG Consultant to check what courses might be suitable for you, if there is not a course where you live, it may be possible for us to organise one for you and your peers.  Is a course necessary?  Many overseas doctors preparing for their FRCEM or MRCEM Emergency Medicine examinations wonder if they should take a course as part of their preparation. In short, we advise that all IMGs should attend as many courses as possible. The knowledge gained on an MRCEM or FRCEM course goes well beyond the exam.  One issue is of course that courses cost a considerable amount of money, but if you consider that taking a course increases your chances exponentially of passing the examinations first time, the cost is offset by not having to pay to re-sit and all the additional costs that come with it (i.e. flights & accommodation). Finding courses can be tricky  So take some time to work out what you specifically need help with and the stage you are at in the process. Search online to find the course that will suit your needs the most.  Speak to your peers, some may have attended a course that they felt had a positive impact on the learning and preparation.  Once you think you have found a course that suits your needs, such as an MRCEM OSCE course, check reviews posted by other IMGs to be sure of the quality of the tutoring.  If you have found a course that suits your needs, has good reviews recommendations from your peers, then it will likely be worth the investment. As a direct result you will likely pass the exams much quicker, helping you to secure the Emergency Medicine job that you want in the NHS. On the day of exam - tips from IMGs Passing any exam is not easy, passing the Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM) OSCE examination even more so. In speaking with IMGs about their journey through the MRCEM OSCE exams, we have heard many thoughts about what it takes to pass. To help IMGs preparing to take the test, here we share some tips from past examinees and OSCE course tutors.  Firstly, it is good to know that every IMG taking the test is in the same position as you, perhaps anxious about how to prepare and worried about the exam day. We are told that the exam is just an ordinary day on the ward, so why then do so many excellent practicing EM physicians struggle to pass at first attempt? It is perhaps important to say that the advice below is not just from not just those IMGs who passed first time, but from those who had to learn from their mistakes and take the test a second or even third time.  The most common thing that we hear is that IMGs must adapt their skill set to the requirements of the NHS system as well as changing their mindset to be able to work under intense observation.  Further reasons they struggle are:  1. Anxiety Experiencing anxiety during exams is completely natural and the fact that the OSCE stations are only 7 minutes adds to this in the Part C. The only way to combat exam anxiety is to accept that is both natural and inevitable. The best way to prepare and suppress the adrenergic surge is with practice, practice and more practice. The best way to practice is under exam conditions and if possible, this should be timed and observed by different examiners. We are not of the opinion that this practice should be done last minute in the week before the exam, instead, your practice should start long before this point. Ask your senior colleagues in the ED to observe and comment upon your history taking and examination skills. If you can get into a routine of doing this with 3 to 5 patients per day you will be able to run through nearly all the most likely scenarios in only 12 shifts. Another great strategy is to teach OSCEs to the more junior doctors within the department. Teaching can be a powerful learning tool and has helped many aspirants with their revision. 2. Lack of practice Make no mistake – the exam is very tough. Over 50% of candidates failed the 2016 sitting. Unless you are freakishly good at cramming you will need to set aside at least 3 months to prepare. IMGs will all study in different ways. Remember you have been through many exams all on your own. Whatever revision method works for you, stick to it. Once you know that you are going to study, make a revision plan and stick to it.  Practice in any way that you can. As above, be sure to ask senior colleagues to observe and offer feedback to you on a regular basis on the EM ward.  To practice out of work, form a small group of colleagues who are also taking the test and run through role plays, taking turns to be patient, doctor or examiner.  Pay careful attention to time keeping as it is very common for candidates to run out of time, particularly in history taking and communication skills stations. 3. Lack of familiarisation with curriculum If you don’t know what you could be tested on, you won’t know what to prepare. The MRCEM OSCE is mapped to the competences of Year 1-3 of the Emergency Medicine 2015 Curriculum which is available on the 2015 Curriculum page. You should familiarise yourself with the Year 1-3 competences in preparation for sitting this examination.   4. Not being able to communicate effectively  Many IMGs have made the mistake of thinking that communication is only about what you say, not considering how you say it, and what you look like when you are saying it. Of course, you may be anxious, which can make you behave differently and say things in a different way. So, if you have practiced as above, make sure you incorporate practicing communicating not just focusing on what you say, but also your body language when saying it. Remember that between 70% of our communication is non-verbal! Try to speak audibly and clearly and if at all possible, sit at the same level as the patient with an open posture. Attempt to make a connection with the patient, maintain good eye contact and give them your undivided attention. Treat actors and mannequins as if they are real patients, interact with them in the same way that you would on the EM ward. Be direct and to the point but deliver any bad news in a sensitive and empathetic manner. Always check whether the patient has understood what you have said and ask if they have any questions. 5. Reading and deciphering the instructions  It is vitally important to read the instructions very carefully before entering a station. Easy marks are frequently lost by nervous or over-confident candidates that have overlooked key information or made assumptions by misreading. This is a mistake many IMGs have made, so learn from their mistakes and be sure to read everything carefully. Once read, make a plan of how you will approach the scenario. Once your minute is up… deep breath and smile!  If you have any questions about how to prepare for the MRCEM OSCE exam, including advice on courses, resources, mock scenarios, online materials and revision books, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with an IMG Consultant. IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.

One of the main reasons that overseas doctors want to work in the Emergency Medicine departments across the UK, is the excellent opportunity for access to training such as the Specialist Training Programme, career progression, including CESR, and sub-specialty development.  This short article provides useful information on the training and development available, how to access the training, the best route to becoming a consultant in the UK with entry to the specialist register, no matter what stage of your training. Emergency Medicine Training, leading to CCT We start with an overview of the Emergency Medicine Training in the NHS. Trainees may enter the emergency medicine training programme via: The EM (Emergency Medicine) core training programme at ST1. This is a three-year core training programme (starting from ST1 and ending at ST3).  For the first two years, trainees will spend 6 months in EM, Intensive Care Medicine, Anaesthetics and Acute Medicine. This is followed by a further year in trauma and paediatric EM.  The start of specialty training (ST4-6) subject to having achieved the necessary competences required for completion of ST3.  Once ST6 is completed, then a doctor will be added to the specialist register for medicine and hold the title of CCT. This means that they can apply for and practice at a consultant level in the NHS.  CESR For senior Emergency Medicine doctors (experienced specialty doctors, consultants and heads of departments) there is also the option of CESR. You can apply directly for CESR from overseas, or secure a post in the NHS with CESR support and complete your application in the UK. This is a good option for those wanting to take up their first role in the NHS as a specialty doctor (leading to consultant) or as a locum consultant. Applying from abroad can be lengthy, and it is certainly not the quickest route towards specialist registration. Most IMGs prefer to secure a post with CESR support, so speak to your IMG Consultant to learn more about the best route to the UK for senior doctors seeking consultant jobs in Emergency Medicine. Most senior Emergency Medicine job vacancies advertised will offer support with CESR, access to training and career progression, and senior managers will encourage you to develop your own professional interests. Emergency medicine departments in the NHS are particularly supportive of doctors seeking to develop both personally and professionally. To find out what jobs are on offer take a look here.  If you think that a Specialty Doctor post with CESR support is suited to you, or if you are a consultant or head of department, then you can find out more information here.  For further advice on how to secure the right job for you in the NHS, take a look at our the following article. IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to see what Emergency Medicine job opportunities there are for you, including access to CESR support, Core and Specialty training.  For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

In this article we provide guidance on evidence to be supplied for an application onto the Specialist Register for Emergency Medicine, with a Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration or CESR. What is CESR in Emergency Medicine in the NHS? As an Emergency Medicine doctor, attaining CESR will mean you are qualified to practice independently as an Emergency Medicine consultant in the NHS. Have a read through our CESR articles found in the IMG Library to understand a little more. Do I need MRCEM to attain a CESR in Emergency Medicine? Yes, Emergency Medicine is one of the few specialisms where there are no GMC-accepted equivalents to MRCEM. Any doctor wishing to attain Specialist Registration via the CCT route will attain FRCEM in addition.  What is the indicative period of training for a CCT in Emergency Medicine? The indicative period of training for a CCT in Emergency Medicine is six years and it is very unlikely that an applicant would achieve the competencies required for a CCT in a shorter period of time.  The evidence you collect for your CESR application should reflect this period of training, which consists of: Two years in the Acute Care Common Stem (covering areas of Emergency Medicine, Anaesthetics, Intensive Care Medicine and Acute Medicine) Four years of training in Emergency Medicine (covering areas of Paediatric EM, EM and EM ultrasound) CESR applicants will need to demonstrate they have achieved the competences in each of these areas.  The EM ultrasound competences (EMUS) can be shown by completing the triggered assessments outlined in the EM curriculum (level 1 or equivalent). The assessments forms for Core Ultrasound can be found in the RCEM EMUS booklet (Appendix 2).  The first three years of training make up Core Specialty Training, the final years of training are known as Higher Specialty Training.  For complete details please refer to the Emergency Medicine Curriculum documentation. Submitting Evidence Do not submit original documents – this is very important. All your copies, other than qualifications you’re getting authenticated must be accompanied by a proformas signed by the person who is attesting to the validity and accuracy of your evidence (your verifier). It is very important that you read an explanation of how to do this in the GMC’s important notice about evidence. How much evidence should you submit? The GMC recognises that doctors will often not have all the evidence required for a complete CESR application, often many doctors will start their application and delay starting their application until they are able to gather all the evidence. The evidence must cover the knowledge, skills and qualifications to demonstrate the required competencies in all areas of the Emergency Medicine Curriculum. If evidence is missing from any one area of the curriculum, then the application will fail. If you have a piece of evidence that is relevant to more than one domain, do not include multiple copies in your bundle. Instead, include one copy and list it in your evidence list under each relevant area, stating that the document is located elsewhere.  The GMC asks that only evidence that is strictly relevant is sent as it will help them to process the application quicker. The guidance on compiling your evidence will help you to decide what is relevant and what is not – make sure you are reading the latest version on the GMC website – here. It is important to note that evidence that is more than five years old will be given less weight than more recent evidence, so you may not need to include it. As a general guide, an application for CESR could expect to see around 800-1000 pages of evidence.  The types of evidence are divided into four different domains, the GMC recommends that you apportion the evidence provided as per the pie chart below: Please note, you cannot compensate for evidence lacking in one area by providing more evidence in another area. Make sure to anonymise your evidence: It is very important to anonymise your evidence before submitting it to the GMC.  You must remove the following: All patient identifying details Details of patients’ relatives Details of colleagues that you have assessed, written a reference for, or who have been involved in a complaint you have submitted. This includes: Names (first and last) addresses  contact details such as phone numbers or email addresses NHS numbers & other individual patient numbers GMC numbers In Summary: If you have any questions or uncertainties, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the IMG Connect team. However, your official point of reference for any queries should the GMC – they can answer and provide the most updated information on CESR applications for overseas Emergency Medicine doctors looking to work as NHS Consultants in Emergency Medicine. IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding, CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS job & hospital locations for you. For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

Many overseas doctors preparing for their FRCEM or MRCEM Emergency Medicine examinations wonder if they should take a course as part of their preparation. In short, we advise that all IMGs should attend as many courses as possible. The knowledge gained on an MRCEM or FRCEM course goes well beyond the exam.  One issue is of course that courses cost a considerable amount of money, but if you consider that taking a course increases your chances exponentially of passing the examinations first time, the cost is offset by not having to pay to re-sit. Finding courses can be tricky, so take some time to work out what you specifically need help with and the stage you are at in the process. Search online to find the course that will suit your needs the most. Speak to your peers, some may have attended a course that they felt had a positive impact on the learning and preparation.  Once you think you have found a course that suits your needs, such as an MRCEM OSCE course, check reviews posted by other IMGs to be sure of the quality of the tutoring.  When purchasing the Emergency Medicine course, if you have found a course that suits your needs, has good reviews recommendations from your peers, then it will likely be worth the investment. As a direct result, you will likely pass the exams much quicker, helping you to secure the Emergency Medicine job that you want in the NHS.  If you need some advice on choosing an Emergency Medicine MRCEM or FRCEM course to help you on your journey to securing a job in the NHS, don’t hesitate to get in touch with IMG Connect.  IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding, CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS job & hospital locations for you.

Today is the day! The MRCEM OSCE results have been released...  IMG Connect wishes all emergency medicine specialists good luck with their results today - we hope you all achieve the result you deserve! Whether your passed or failed, here we'll offer some suggestions on what to do next... I passed the MRCEM OSCE I didn't pass the MRCEM OSCE I passed the MRCEM OSCE, what's next? So, what next? First things first, you deserve to celebrate and get some relaxation in! Emergency Medicine doctors who have attained full MRCEM and secured a job in the NHS, all tell us that the MRCEM OSCE is a tough examination and it is an emotional moment when you pass. So much hard work goes into to reaching this stage, so book yourself a holiday! Or at least kick off your shoes and put your feet up :-)  You are now well on your way to being eligible to apply for an Emergency Medicine post in the UK. There are a few key steps before you're ready to go: English language test GMC registration Apply for NHS jobs English Language Test You may be wondering whether you need to take an English exam now that you have passed MRCEM OSCE. This is a requirement for all overseas doctors and is needed for GMC registration. For doctors who have worked for at least 2 years in an English-speaking country, employer references for English can be used to demonstrate a suitable level of competence in English. Passing your English language exams is an important next step for many Emergency Medicine doctors that pass their MRCEM. Take a look at these helpful blogs and articles from the IMG Library on OET, IELTS and preparing for English language exams, including a side-by-side comparison of the two tests. English Language Tests - a library of all our helpful blogs and articles on English Language Testing, written specifically for international doctors. OET - a series of blogs and articles relating to the Occupational English Test (OET) IELTS - a library of articles and blogs and articles centered on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) GMC Registration Armed with your complete MRCEM, you can now apply for full GMC registration with licence to practice. There are a few checks involved in the GMC registration process such as the verification of your medical license and obtaining a certificate of good standing, however, we are more than happy to talk you through the process with little to no worries or effort on your part. Once your application has been approved, you are eligible to work in the NHS. Nice one! Apply for NHS Jobs Now is also a good time to start thinking about the steps you should take in finding the right job for you in the NHS, or wherever you are considering your next role. There may be many questions running through your mind such as, do I need to take an English exam first? What grade will I be eligible for? Or perhaps most importantly, how do I find an A&E job in the UK? To jumpstart your job search, click here for up-to-date NHS Emergency Medicine jobs. As specialists in the recruitment of overseas MRCEM qualified A&E doctors, whether it's preparing your CV for professional representation or finding you a great role with a fantastic salary, IMG Connect is here to help. Register your details with IMG Connect to receive a one-to-one personalised service from one of our Emergency Medicine Specialists. We have a team that helps specifically international Emergency Medicine doctors like yourself in securing work across the UK & Ireland. Register today and one of our team will get back to you immediately! I didn't pass the MRCEM OSCE If you did not pass the MRCEM OSCE - don't worry! The overall pass rate for those that attempt a second time is extremely high (90%+) so your hard work and dedication will pay off very soon! Take some time out to relax and enjoy life and come back stronger. These moments will only make you stronger and a better doctor in the long run so as the British say, chin up and strong upper lip! At IMG Connect we've taken the time to prepare and collate the best preparation resources for the OSCE - and we would be delighted to share these with you. Click on the buttons below to either register with the IMG Connect team, so we can talk you through this or request the MRCEM OSCE resources to help you pass the next time. Getting started  If you have any questions about how to secure an NHS job in Emergency Medicine, please get in touch with us here.   Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:              

CESR acts as a route to applying for substantive (permanent) consultant jobs in Emergency Medicine for doctors who have not followed a specialty training programme in the United Kingdom. In a nutshell it is the option available to emergency medicine doctors practicing as consultants, or at a senior level from overseas who wish to gain specialist registration in the UK. Some doctors choose to apply from overseas, others work with IMG Connect to secure a job in the NHS geared at helping them gain entry to the specialist register once in the UK.  If you are working as an Emergency Medicine consultant, or at a senior level in your home country and are eligible for specialist registration in the UK, then as an overseas doctor (IMG) you have a couple of options. Here we focus on applying for CESR from abroad as well as the alternative route, applying for a Specialty Doctor or Fixed Term Consultant job in the UK before applying for CESR with support of your NHS employer.  Both routes lead to gaining CESR and entry to the Specialist Register, meaning that you can work as a substantive consultant in the NHS. Both take hard work, preparation, evidence gathering, time and dedication. Both options have the same end goal, specialist registration.  It is important to say that no matter how you choose to apply, the CESR process involves submitting a large volume of evidence to demonstrate that you have the equivalent experience, skills and competencies as a doctor who has taken the specialty training route in the UK. Whether applying from overseas or not, some doctors are asked to complete additional experiences to meet this strict standard. Because of this, the process can be lengthy.  Applying for CESR from overseas  This is a great option for emergency medicine consultants who are not constrained by time and have an understanding department that will support the additional gathering of evidence. The GMC reckons that it takes between 6 – 9 months between submitting your application and receiving a decision. At IMG Connect our experience tells us that is takes a similar amount of time to gather the evidence prior to submitting. In addition, you must have completed the evidence in the first place in real workplace and clinical scenarios. This can take twice as much time as preparing and submitting. Put simply, the process can be time consuming and laborious.  Add to this the issue of completing and gathering evidence against the CESR application from overseas. It can prove challenging to ensure that you have completed the full complement of competencies for CESR applications. This can result in the GMC asking for further evidence, adding more time to the process. You may have to identify gaps in your learning and then resolve them. It is not all bad though, this is good practice and will benefit you in the long run.  Applying for a specialty doctor job and/or fixed term consultant post before applying for CESR For senior emergency medicine doctors who are keen to secure entry to the Specialist Register quickly, and work in the UK as soon as possible, then taking up a Specialty Doctor role with CESR programme, or a Fixed Term Consultant post with CESR programme/support is a good option. Many NHS hospitals or trusts in the UK will offer access to support, clinical experience and study or preparation time for CESR. This is often built into the weekly job plan, but in some circumstances, this may be arranged informally. Either way, this is a good way for senior emergency medicine doctors to quickly gather the right evidence for their application with the support of their peers, senior colleagues and NHS employer. This can shorten the time spent on the application overall. If this sounds like the best option for you, it is wise to start gathering and signing off evidence in your current consultant post. That way you will already have some or most of the required evidence for CESR in place, allowing you to quickly focus on any elements that are missing once in the UK and working in the NHS Find an emergency medicine job in the NHS with CESR Securing a job as a Specialty Doctor with CESR programme attached, or a job as a Fixed Term Consultant with CESR programme/support attached, gives you instant exposure to the UK system, NHS experience and a great start to your career in the NHS.  To discuss whether applying for CESR from overseas or securing a job as a Specialty Doctor or Fixed term consultant with CESR programme is the right route for you towards specialist registration, speak with an IMG Connect consultant, register or send your CV.  IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

Attaining Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine or MRCEM is required to attain GMC Registration and start your Emergency Medicine career in the NHS. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) from any country in the world can sit the MRCEM examinations, provided certain eligibility criteria are met. These are summarised below along with a broad look at the following topics: What is MRCEM? MRCEM Route Eligibility for overseas doctors Where can I take the exams & how much will they cost me? How do I apply? How to prepare and what resources are available Should I take an MRCEM course? Passed? What next? What is the Royal College of Emergency Medicine? The Royal College of Emergency Medicine is the professional body responsible for the specialty of Emergency Medicine throughout the UK. Among many other duties, its role is to set and monitor the educational curriculum for those training to enter the profession in the UK. What is MRCEM? Membership of the Royal College is awarded to candidates who pass three examination components.  There have been a few changes to the MRCEM and FRCEM examination structure over the last few years, as such there are currently two routes to an accreditation in Emergency Medicine, both leading to RCEM Membership. These two routes are: Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM) Fellowship of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (FRCEM) MRCEM & FRCEM are one several routes an overseas emergency medicine doctor can take full GMC registration. Read our blogs on acceptable postgraduate qualifications and PLAB if you are unsure what route to take. For doctors who wish to take more senior roles reflective of their current practice, IMG Connect advise that MRCEM or FRCEM would be the best route to take. Please note, applicants that pass a specific combination of MRCEM and FRCEM examinations can still be awarded Membership of the Royal College by Examination (MRCEM). This would still satisfy postgraduate requirements for GMC registration. MRCEM Examination route: The alternative route, Membership by Examination (MRCEM), is offered to candidates who have passed all the following components: FRCEM Primary or (MRCEM Part A) One written paper, three-hours total FRCEM Intermediate SAQ (replaces MRCEM Part B) Short Answer Question paper - 3 hour paper comprised of 60, 3-mark questions MRCEM OSCE Practical examination setting with 18, seven-minute stations  Eligibility for MRCEM Examinations: Eligibility for FRCEM Primary: To be eligible you must hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes. Eligibility for FRCEM Intermediate: To be eligible you must hold a PMQ recognised by the GMC, have completed an equivalent to the UK Foundation Programme and have passed FRCEM Primary Examination after 1st August 2016. You will also be eligible if you have been granted exemption from the FRCEM Primary as a result of obtaining MRCS or MRCSI after 1st January 2012. Eligibility for MRCEM OSCE: To be eligible to enter the MRCEM OSCE (Part C) you must meet the following requirements: Hold a medical qualification approved by the GMC and Have completed the UK Foundation Programme of equivalent (electronic evidence required at point of application) and Have passed the FRCEM Primary examination after 1st August 2016 or Have passed the MRCEM Part A examination after 1st August 2012 and prior to 31st July 2016 and Have passed the FRCEM Intermediate SAQ after 1st August 2016 or Have passed the MRCEM Part B examination after 1st August 2012 and prior to 31 July 2016 and Have 36 months experience including 6 months experience in Emergency Medicine at a level above Foundation Year 1 (post full registration) Where can I take the exams & how much will they cost me? Examination and application dates are regularly updated by the Royal College and can be found here.  Please remember, applications made outside of the application period will not be accepted. Examination Location Fees FRCEM Primary Short Answer Question Paper UK £310 Iceland, Malaysia, Oman, India £390 FRCEM Intermediate Certificate SAQ UK £305 Iceland, Malaysia, Oman £385 MRCEM OSCE UK £450 India £450 How can I apply? All applications are made online and links to all application forms and windows are available here. It is worth noting, the application can take some time to complete, so it is always advisable to apply well in advance of the deadlines. Please remember, applications submitted after the application period will not be accepted.  How do I prepare for each exam and what resources are available? With lots of resources available online, we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams. Curriculum: Applicants are tested on a range of common and important disorders in Emergency Medicine as set out in the Emergency Medicine Training Curriculum 2015. We recommend getting to know the curriculum as early as possible and using it as a road map for your study plan.  Information Packs: These provide detailed information for the relevant examination components so that you can best prepare for your studies and what to expect on the day: FRCEM Primary FRCEM Intermediate MRCEM OSCE SAQ Blueprint: The blueprint for the new Intermediate SAQ exam can be found on page 8 of the FRCEM Intermediate examination pack, downloaded from the RCEM website here. Sample questions:  Test your knowledge using example questions from the current exam syllabus provided by the Royal College, see below: Primary – sample questions Intermediate - Sample SAQs are included in the Information Pack Glossary of Terms:  The royal college uses many terms that may cause confusion, so take plenty time to understand the terms and definitions used in this guide. Candidates are expected to be rigorous in their use of these terms. Glossary of terms used in RCEM exams. Examination Report: The Royal College recently began to publish reports on the performance of those sitting FRCEM examinations. Below is the first report published and helps to break down results for those in training and those out of training.  2018 Examination report. Online resources:  There are lots of resources online, such as videos on YouTube, FRCEM courses and useful reading materials. We think that these are a great addition to your study plan, just be sure to check your sources.  For a useful overview of how to prepare for exams, including advice on study groups, online community support, best use of online resources & Royal College materials and courses, take a look at our blog: IMG Connects Top Tips for exam preparation. As ever at IMG Connect we believe in preparation. In order to succeed in the clinical exam, IMGs have told us that it is vital that you practice your clinical examinations as frequently as possible, preferably under the supervision of a senior colleague. This will give you confidence in approaching and examining patients with examiners present. Should I take a course to prepare for the OSCE? Whilst it is not essential to take a course when preparing for the MRCEM or FRCEM OSCEs - there is no doubt it will help your preparations both technically and mentally, and should be considered an investment towards your future career plans. Have a read of our blog on recommended MRCEM courses for Emergency Medicine doctors. Passed? What next?  First of all, congratulations! After you have passed all parts of FRCEM or MRCEM you can apply for a full registration with a license to practice. Once the GMC have approved your application, you can work as a doctor in the UK.  IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding, CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS job & hospital locations for you. For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

If you have applied for an exam which is held in a UK test centre, you will need a UK Visitor Visa to enter the UK and sit the exam. Here we have put together the main information you will need as well as useful links to get you started and we will look at the following: How do I apply?  Online application for UK Visa What supporting documents do I need to prepare and provide? What costs can I expect in the UK? What happens if my visa application is refused? The first thing to suggest, is that as soon as you receive your results for the first exams e.g. FRCPath Part 1, PLAB 1 etc., start planning the date that you want to sit the in-person exam. This will not only help you prepare for the test itself, but also will ensure that when you apply for the Visitor Visa, you will be prepared for the visa application and appointment, and able to visit the UK within the 6-month visa period. It is worth noting, that no matter what the guidance and instructions are, visa applications can prove different for everyone, so start working on the application early.  If you are not sure if you need a visa – you can check here. You can apply for a Standard Visitor Visa if you are a doctor and are coming to the UK to sit an in-person exam, such as an OSCE, PLAB 2 or FRCPath Part 2 exam. The option you require is a Work, Academic visit or Business visa and the duration is less than six months.  How do I apply?  The UK Visa Application for UK examinations can be described in two parts:  Online application for the required type of visa. Submission of supporting documents and providing biometric data (photo, fingerprints) at a visa application centre.  Let’s take a look at each part in more detail.  Online Application for the UK Visitor Visa As part of the online application, you will be required to book an appointment at a visa application centre, you can check the locations available here.  You can complete the application in stages; however we advise that you prepare all of the required documentation first, and then complete the online form and upload everything you need in one go.  A standard UK visa currently costs £95. Supporting Documents It is important to note that the required documents will vary from person to person, however two documents are necessary for every applicant:  Your valid passport The email confirmation of your exam (from the relevant Royal College or GMC) You will then typically require the following:  Cover Letter If your trip is self-funded you will need: Salary certificate Bank statements Letter of Support from your financial guarantor (if applicable) This is only required if your trip is financed by another person (i.e. family member). Affidavit affirming the declaration of the financial sponsorship This is done before a notary public and will have to be translated into English.  Letter of recommendation  Any letter of recommendations will need to come from senior colleagues at your current workplace. Bank Statements Typically 6 months worth (either yours or your sponsor's if applicable). Monthly payslip A clear copy is needed with all information visible. Income/Salary Certificate (Yours/Sponsors)    Evidence of Home Address  Deeds or Nationality Certificate or Home electricity bill where the address is written. This will need to be translated and notarised. A ‘No Objection Letter’ issued by your employer A ‘No Objection Letter’ for visa is a legal certificate issued by your employer agreeing for you to take off the days for you visit to the UK. In addition, the letter states that you have contractual obligations to return to your country of residence at your workplace. Confirmation of your accommodation in the UK Or, invitation letter from friends or family with whom you will be staying. You may also require a Council tax and utility bill of the accommodation address. If it’s a family that you’re staying with, you don’t need to worry about proving Sponsorship. If they are just providing accommodation (and your father or mother is your financial guarantor), a simple invitation letter stating your name, your passport number, duration and purpose of your stay is sufficient along with their contact details. The council tax and utility bill is just to prove that the address exists by their name.  Evidence of family members in your home country whilst you travel These would include Passport copies or National ID copies of your family members. To complete the online application, here are the required entries:  Your name Passport details Your National ID number, if you have one Your email Travel information/plan: the date you will arrive in the UK and the date you will leave the UK. The arrival date is more important. The itinerary in your cover letter should explain this in more detail.   Choose business, including sports and entertainment as the main reason for your visit After answering 'No's to organised group, travelling with partner, visiting a company or getting paid for business activities—choose Take the PLAB or OSCE In Give details, write down your full itinerary, taken from your cover letter in full sentences Personal information: Your home address Parent details: Father’s and mother’s name, dates of birth Employment details If you are employed and sponsoring yourself, then IMG recommend you arrange for two papers from your employer from the above list a) Salary Certificate b) No Objection Certificate Your own bank account details with bank statements (for the last six months) How much money are you planning to spend on your visit Details of who is covering the costs, if you are not yourself UK accommodation details Travel histories in UK or other countries Any details of visa refusals  Other histories regarding whether you have any criminal convictions Any other relevant information you wish to provide, you can leave this blank Finally comes the declaration page and it asks you to choose an appointment (date and time) with a visa application centre. Please note that you don’t have to choose immediately, especially if you don’t have all the supporting documents ready. Just save it there and a link will be sent to your email. But as above, IMG Connect recommends that you have all of the supporting documents prepared before starting your UK Visitor Visa application. What costs can I expect in the UK?  Whilst your exam(s) will be taken across no more than two days, we advise for candidate to allow themselves a few days for climatisation and revision prior to the exam. When budgeting*, make sure that you book flights, hotels and UK transport to and from the airport in advance to save money.   Once in the UK, a typical low-cost budget for a comfortable stay will include approximately:  £40 - £60 per night for accommodation depending on your test venue £15 - £25 for food per day £20 for transport per day £50 for Airport transfers (return journey)  *remember to consider flights & travel insurance costs in your total budget Always remember to use price comparison websites or Airbnb to find the best value for money and shortest journey to amenities and test venues.  What happens if my visa application is refused? You will receive a letter from the Home Office detailing the reasons for rejecting the application - don’t worry, you can apply again. If this happens to you, get in touch with your IMG Connect consultant who would be happy to help you re-apply. Getting started Don’t hesitate to get in touch here, or using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. For advice, guidance and news and updates for IMGs, join the conversation through the links below:             

The MRCEM and FRCEM Intermediate SBA exams are tough.... Success in these exams is a challenge and all Emergency Medicine doctors deserve credit for getting to this stage. Whether your passed or failed, here we'll offer some suggestions on what to do next: I passed the MRCEM / FRCEM SBA exam I didn't pass the MRCEM / FRCEM SBA exam I passed the FRCEM / MRCEM SBA exam: First things first, you deserve to celebrate and get some rest. No doubt you wherever you are, you are dealing with the coronavirus and will not be able to celebrate in the way that you would wish. But from us at IMG Connect, congratulations! Doctors who have attained full MRCEM and secured a job in the NHS tell us that the FRCEM SBA is a very tough examination, so well done! Your hard work has paid off. Once you are feeling relaxed, this is a good time to think about what steps you need to take to complete full MRCEM. For most overseas doctors, this will mean taking the final MRCEM OSCE exam and whilst all OSCE centres are currently closed it takes most doctors at least six to nine months to prepare for the exam anyway.  So what is the MRCEM OSCE? Like the intermediate exam, the MRCEM OSCE requires a considerable amount of revision and preparation. However, as you know the format is very different, so your preparation will change. The MRCEM OSCE consists of 18 stations (16 patient encounters & 2 rest stations), each one lasting for about 7 minutes. The MRCEM OSCE exam will not only test your theoretical knowledge, but also your resus skills and communication skills. Even candidates who are working in an emergency medicine department (ED or ER) often find these OSCEs difficult. Even if you have strong background knowledge in Emergency Medicine the exams can still be tricky due to a heavy reliance on testing your communication skills and etiquette. How to preparation for MRCEM OSCE? Preparation is therefore vital for all doctors who intend to take the MRCEM OSCE exam. This can be broken down into the following: Practical day-to-day work (colleague observations & feedback, peer groups, study groups) Online revision resources (subscriptions, reading materials, tutorials, videos) Courses (face to face, online) In general, emergency medicine course tutors advise setting aside at least 2-3 months preparation in addition to your Emergency Medicine experience. Resources, courses and revision materials: We are often asked by Emergency Medicine doctors where they should look for resources, online revision materials, OSCE mock stations and preparation courses (online and face to face). As such, we have compiled the best advice, tips, courses and resources suggested by Emergency Medicine doctors who have taken the MRCEM and FRCEM exams. Where can I take the MRCEM OSCE exam? Overseas doctors (IMGs) can sit the final MRCEM OSCE exam in three locations: the UK, India and Malaysia. However the Royal College has suspended all upcoming test dates and centres due to the COVID-19 coronavirus. I did not pass the FRCEM SBA exam: If you did not pass the FRCEM intermediate exam - don't worry! The overall pass rate is 35% which is roughly half of the MRCEM OSCE pass rate. This is a tough exam so don't worry too much, take some time out to relax and enjoy life. These moments where you don't succeed at the first, or second time, will only make you stronger and a better doctor in the long run. As the British say, chin up and strong upper lip! At IMG Connect we've taken the time to prepare and collate the best preparation resources for the FRCEM Intermediate Certificate exam - we would be delighted to share these with you. Click on the buttons below to register with the IMG Connect team so we can talk you through this or request the FRCEM Intermediate resources to help you pass the next time - without fail! If you have any questions about how to secure an NHS job in Emergency Medicine or prepare for the FRCEM Intermediate exam or MRCEM OSCE (including advice on dates, fees, courses, resources, mock scenarios, online materials and revision books) then don’t hesitate to get in touch with an IMG Consultant. IMG Connect is keeping a very close eye on the examination schedule and will keep all our IMGs informed as soon as the College publishes some updates. You can find the updated exam schedule here. However, this does not mean you cannot use the time to prepare for your OSCE! IMG Jobs Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch If you have any questions about how to secure an NHS job in Emergency Medicine, please get in touch with us here.   Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:              

Experienced overseas Emergency Medicine trust doctors, or consultants who have completed specialist training, can apply for specialty doctor posts in the NHS with CESR programmes included in the job plan.  So, if you are committed, motivated and enthusiastic in embracing the CESR application once in the UK, this could be the best route towards gaining entry to the specialist register. Many trusts are piloting such projects, which will support you via a CESR programme tailored to your needs. Specialist Register for Emergency Medicine All consultants (other than a locum consultant appointments) must be on the specialist register of the General Medical Council (GMC). To be eligible to apply for specialist registration with the GMC, doctors must have successfully completed a GMC-approved training programme leading to CCT, or applied for a certificate confirming Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR). Doctors who have not completed a full GMC-approved training programme and wish to have their training, qualifications and experience assessed for eligibility for entry onto the specialist register must make an application under The General and Specialist Medical Practice Order for a CESR. Working with IMG Connect & our NHS Clients Working with our NHS clients, we are offering CESR Specialty doctor roles, with the opportunity of being mentored by CESR Consultants to guide you in your application toward CESR and to participate in a job plan that is tailored to your needs. Such CESR programmes are locally developed and targeted for both International Doctors coming to work in the NHS and non-trainees wanting to apply for a CESR in Emergency Medicine. As an Emergency Medicine doctor your CESR programme will include dedicated one-to-one mentoring and a course mapped on the GMC domains for successful completion of your application.  Benefits of the CESR programme Such Specialty doctor vacancies will give you the benefit of support on your journey to achieving consultant status, give you the opportunity to adapt to working in the NHS, and help you to further your career at the most senior level.  Furthermore, job plans will typically provide you with a dedicated mentor for CESR applicants by Emergency Medicine CESR Consultants who will take you through the application process. In some circumstances practical experience will be delivered via simulation and workshops where you are at the centre of the learning experience. Most NHS trusts have experienced Emergency Medicine CESR consultants who will be available to give you support, mentorship and coaching. The post are intended to provide the emergency medicine clinician with the support and training required to successfully complete all aspects of the CESR process and attain specialist registration, allowing you to take a substantive emergency medicine post and work as a consultant in the NHS.  IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

Here we’ll take a closer look at the second stage of your FRCEM success in the examinations – FRCEM Intermediate SAQ. We’ll consider its purpose, structure and content, eligibility, dates, exam centers and provide some revision tips to give you the best chance of passing first time and moving closer towards full Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM). Designed to help you prepare and sit the exam, we consider the following topics: What is FRCEM Intermediate Certificate? Am I eligible? Exemptions & equivalent examinations  Where can I take the exam? How much will it cost me? How can I prepare for the exam? Passed? What next? What is the FRCEM Intermediate SAQ? The FRCEM Intermediate Certificate is the second examination in a series of three and is mapped to the Competencies of Year 1-3 of the Emergency Medicine 2015 Curriculum (ACCS Plus). The FRCEM Intermediate SAQ comprises of a 3-hour paper of 60, 3-mark questions. A full break down of the blueprint is found on the FRCEM Intermediate Regulations & Information Pack. A summarised blueprint for the SAQ can be found below. Curriculum Category Questions Common Competences 7 Clinical Presentations – Core Major & Acute Presentations  18 Anaesthetic Competences CT1&2 4 ICM within ACCS 2 Acute Presentations – Additional Adult ST3 6 Paediatric Presentations – Makor & Acute Presentations  11 Practical Procedures (ACCS) 12 Total  60 Am I eligible? To be eligible you must hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) recognised by the GMC, have completed an equivalent to the UK Foundation Programme (Internship?) and have passed FRCEM Primary Examination after 1st August 2016. You will also be eligible if you have been granted exemption from the FRCEM Primary as a result of obtaining MRCS or MRCSI after 1st January 2012. MRCEM Part B in place of FRCEM Intermediate SAQ MRCEM Part B passes obtained prior to August 2012 are deemed time expired, therefore you are required to pass the FRCEM Intermediate SAQ examination.  If you passed the MRCEM Part B examination after 1 August 2012 you are deemed to have passed an equivalent examination to the FRCEM Intermediate SAQ examination. Where and when can I take the exam? And how much will it cost me? Examination and application dates are regularly updated by the Royal College and can be found here. Venues and Fees for both intermediate examinations are below: Examination Location Fees FRCEM Intermediate Certificate SAQ UK £305 Iceland, Malaysia, Oman £385 How can I apply? All applications are made online. Please note, the application can take some time to complete so it is always advisable to apply well in advance of the deadlines. Applications submitted after the application period will not be accepted.  Links to all application forms and application windows are available here. How do I prepare for each exam and what resources are available? With lots of resources available online, we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams. See below:  Curriculum: Applicants are tested on a range of common and important disorders in Emergency Medicine as set out in the Emergency Medicine Training Curriculum 2015. The examination is conducted in English and candidates are advised that IELTS Level 7 is the expected standard for completion of the FRCEM examinations. Remember, you will need to have a pass of 7.5 average in all areas of IELTS to complete your GMC registration. Information Packs: These provide detailed information for the relevant examination components so that you can best prepare for your studies and what to expect on the day.  You can download this here: FRCEM Intermediate SAQ Blueprint: The blueprint for the Intermediate SAQ exam can be found on page 8 of the FRCEM Intermediate examination pack, downloaded from the RCEM website here. SJP Blueprint: The blueprint for the new Intermediate SJP exam can be found on page 11 of the FRCEM Intermediate examination pack, downloaded from the RCEM website here. Sample questions:  Test your knowledge using example questions from the current exam syllabus provided by the Royal College: Intermediate Certificate – sample SJP questions Glossary of Terms:  The Royal College uses many terms that may cause confusion, so take plenty time to understand the terms and definitions using this guide.  Candidates are expected to be rigorous in their use of these terms. Glossary of terms used in RCEM exams. Examination Report: The Royal College recently began to publish reports on the performance of those sitting FRCEM examinations. Below is the first report published and helps to break down results for those in training and those out of training.  2018 Examination report. Online resources:  There are lots of resources online, such as videos on YouTube, FRCEM courses and useful reading materials. We think that these are a great addition to your study plan, just be sure to check your sources.  Passed? What next?  First of all, congratulations! After you have passed FRCEM Intermediate you can apply to sit the Final Examination. Take a look at our article on FRCEM Final Examination where we explore everything you need to know about how to sit the exam, including syllabus, dates, fees, results and preparation.  IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.

Here we look at finding an NHS doctor job in emergency medicine and why you should choose a career in the NHS. We will explore the growing demand for Emergency Medicine specialists, offering guidance on how to find the right job suited to your own professional preferences, discussing how to research work in the NHS ER, criteria for GMC registration, (MRCEM, FRCEM & IELTS exemption) as well as some useful resources to get you started.  Growth in Emergency Medicine means that the NHS will rely on recruiting more overseas emergency medicine specialists in order to meet growing demand to fill jobs across the country. Emergency care departments and the doctors who work within them are the foundations of the NHS. Staff working in EDs in the UK deliver high quality patient care for all patients presenting with minor or critical life-threatening and life-changing conditions.  We hope that you too will consider working in some of the best ERs in the world across the NHS.  First steps towards your new job in the NHS:  A stable workforce within the ED departments across the UK is crucial, as such at IMG Connect we have developed a specialist approach to Emergency Medicine recruitment. Responding to staffing challenges within EDs in the NHS, we have created a dedicated department for Emergency medicine specialists, where you will work with a dedicated consultant who makes it their responsibility to know your chosen field inside and out. We have taken steps to ensure that IMG Connect and NHS organisations collectively work to help recruit and retain the very best specialists, ensuring a large enough workforce with the right skills, behaviours and values to deliver care in our EDs. No matter what stage you are at in the process of relocating to the UK, you can speak with a specialist consultant in Emergency medicine, who will work with you to establish the areas that we can offer the most effective support for you.  Why choose to work in Emergency Medicine in the UK? The Emergency Department is where the public know to come when they need help, they value the service and in return you have the privilege of helping people when they are most in need. Here are a few of the reasons to work in Emergency Medicine in the NHS:  You work with the full range of illness and injury, in all types of patients. The ED department in the UK means that you will see the ‘best bits’ of all the specialties.  There are no long ward rounds.  Flexible working exists in all departments, giving you the chance to have a better quality of life. Don’t believe the myths! Flexible working as a consultant is the most flexible in the NHS.  Flexible sessional working allows for a more family friendly environment.  The Emergency Department is the front door of the Hospital and the ‘shopwindow’ of the NHS.  Staff morale is high, despite working in a challenging environment.  You will work as part of a team - with a shared team spirit and camaraderie  You will have access to excellent opportunities to develop a special interest in almost any subspecialty or area of interest.  Career progression and stability is always available Access to CESR and the specialist register is widespread, and hospitals are highly supportive to overseas doctors to make sure that this progression happens Recognised subspecialties and niche personal interests are encouraged Consultant vacancies have increased making this specialism more and more of a attractive career choice in EM  EM is an excellent career choice for those looking for flexibility and balance. Do some research:  Don’t just take our word for it, we advise that you do some research online to explore the various opportunities and experiences that await you in the Emergency Department in the NHS.  There are many free resources available to help you explore what it is like to work in an ED in the UK, here are a few that we think will be useful:  The Royal College of Emergency Medicine   Paediatric Emergency Medicine UK   Emergency Medicine Trainees’ Association (EMTA)   Forum for Associate Specialist and Staff Grade Doctors in Emergency Medicine (FASSGEM) The Royal College of Emergency Medicine (Careers) The Royal College of Emergency Medicine (Training) Health Careers Don’t forget, we are always here to answer any questions you may have and offer our support in any way we can.  Find out what jobs are available:  There has been significant investment in the UK geared towards growing the number of ED trust doctors, SHOs, specialty doctors and consultants over recent years. There are many ways to get access to these jobs, including online via NHS jobs, through networks of doctors, and through an agency, such as IMG Connect.  You can search jobs and apply for Emergency Medicne jobs here.  Working with an IMG Connect specialist in Emergency Medicine you will receive access to the widest possible range of current and future vacancies in the UK. Better still, your consultant will spend time getting to know you personally, understanding both your personal and professional relocation needs. A key benefit in terms of working with a specialist is that they will be able to give you an honest assessment of each job, including but not exclusive to, advice on the following: the hospital, standards and CQC reports, working in the ED, the local area, cost of living, housing, quality of life, job expectations and career progression. Advice that is designed to ensure you can settle into life in the UK and focus on your career in the NHS.  Speak to a consultant today to discuss your career options in the NHS and get the widest access to jobs and advice.  Get the right qualifications:  All Emergency Medicine doctors looking to secure a job and work in the UK, whether you are from inside or outside of Europe, will need to satisfy certain criteria to fully register with the Emergency Medical Council (GMC) before beginning their journey in the NHS. If you qualified as a doctor outside the EEA, then you will have to demonstrate that both your medical knowledge & skills and English Language capabilities meet the level required to practice safely in the UK.  In addition, you will need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.  Take a look at our articles on each qualification:  English Language Testing Evidence of Knowledge & Skills PLAB MRCEM FRCEM Tier 2 Visas Full GMC Registration English language exemption:  Many trusts or hospitals will be able to offer English Language test exemption for overseas doctors in emergency medicine specifically. This is a process that can be used when an ER needs to meet demand for doctors quickly. Not every hospital will accept IELTS exemption, so relying on this process means that the number of available posts could be reduced slightly. That said, a great number of our NHS partners are able to offer this exemption, to establish what this could mean for you, our best advice is to speak to an IMG Consultant to discuss further.  In summary, Emergency Medicine in the NHS has developed into one of the most exciting and rewarding careers, offering great opportunity for career progression through the specialist training programme or CESR. It attracts individuals who thrive on challenge and variety and can offer professional development in areas of personal interest. Working with an IMG Consultant specialist in Emergency Medicine will give you access to the best advice and job opportunities. As well as helping you to make decisions about the hospitals you wish to work in, they will also ensure you and your family relocate and settle into your new life in the UK. IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding, CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS job & hospital locations for you. For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

There are several routes overseas Emergency Medicine doctors can take to GMC registration & securing an NHS emergency medicine job. Whether you are from inside or outside of Europe, will need to satisfy certain criteria to fully register with the Emergency Medical Council (GMC) before beginning their journey in the NHS. As an overseas doctor, the criteria you need to meet depends on where you currently live and practice, either inside the EEA (& associated countries) or outside the EEA.  This article is designed to give you a snapshot of the steps you need to take to start your journey to the UK, no matter where in the world you live.  Inside the EEA – click here Outside the EEA – click here “Doctors from countries around the world play a vital and significant role in our NHS and in the delivery of safe patient care. This is not only welcome but is part of the continuous exchange of knowledge in healthcare and should be strongly encouraged. They make an invaluable contribution to the NHS.”  Joint statement from the Royal College of Physicians Inside the EEA Firstly, it is important to note that where we refer to EEA in this article this refers to all countries inside the EU, including Lichtenstein, Iceland & Norway.  If you qualified as a doctor inside the EEA or Switzerland, then the good news is that you don’t need to demonstrate your medical knowledge and skills to work as a doctor in the UK – you have already done this, and thanks to the EU your qualification is deemed equivalent.  In addition, you will not need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.  So, the main hurdle that you will face is demonstrating that your English skills are of a high enough standard to practice safely as a doctor in the UK & NHS.  English Language Testing Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language. You can do this by passing either of the following: IELTS – International English Language Testing System OET – Occupational English Test Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:  IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors OET – a guide for overseas doctors GMC Registration Having passed your English Language Test, you can now apply for full registration with a license to practice with the GMC. For full GMC registration you must provide evidence of: Evidence of English language capabilities (IELTS or OET) AND Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (your equivalent qualifications) Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article here: IMG Resources - GMC Registration for overseas doctors Job search We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for European doctors in the NHS is ever-increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!  At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for European doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of jobs than are readily available online.  Our network extends to psychiatry services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.  In addition, your dedicated consultant, with a specialty knowledge of Emergency Medicine, will negotiate on your behalf ensuring you get the most competitive salary.  Our aim is to have a job offer on the table before your GMC registration is complete, giving you the peace of mind of having an agreed contract in place - leaving you to carefully plan your relocation to the UK. Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search Relocation Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK. Once you have secured your role in the UK, we focus on supporting you and your family with all your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help. Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. Take a look here: IMG Resources – Relocation & UK Life Outside of the EEA If you qualified as a doctor outside the EEA, then you will have to demonstrate that both your medical knowledge & skills and English Language capabilities meet the level required to practice safely in the UK. In addition, you will need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.  Here we summarise the requirements for Emergency Medicine doctors, looking at the following: English Language Testing Evidence of Knowledge & Skills - PLAB, MRCEM/FRCEM or equivalents Tier 2 Visas  Full GMC Registration English Language Testing Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language. You can do this by passing either of the following: OET – Occupational English Test IELTS – International English Language Testing System Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:  IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors OET – a guide for overseas doctors Evidence of Knowledge & Skills in Medicine Overseas doctors must prove to the GMC they have sufficient knowledge & skills to practice safely in the UK. This can be done through three main routes: PLAB Royal College qualification of MRCEM/ FRCEM GMC - recognised or equivalent qualifications Route 1 - PLAB The PLAB exam is a two-part exam that assesses a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO in the NHS, as such it does not demonstrate ability in Medicine specifically.  For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine.  That said, for some senior doctors PLAB can be an attractive option, offering a quicker route to the UK, whilst still securing competitive salaries. If taking this option, international doctors can then take up training or a more senior post once they have established themselves in the NHS.  Take a look through our comprehensive guides on PLAB: PLAB – a guide for overseas doctors PLAB 1 – a closer look PLAB 2 – a closer look Route 2 - Royal College Qualification of MRCEM Attaining a Royal College qualification is a preferred path for doctors who have already chosen their field of specialism i.e. medicine. For senior Emergency Medicine doctors taking this route, they will gain access to more senior, well-paid jobs in the specialism of their choice.  The Royal College of Emergency Medicine is the Professional Body that regulates the specialism of medicine in the UK, and Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCEM/ FRCEM) is the full qualification attainable by examination. For overseas doctors, attaining MRCEM will satisfy the knowledge & skill criteria for GMC registration and facilitate application for more senior roles in UK emergency medicine. Take a look at our complete guide on Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine to understand more: MRCEM – a guide for overseas doctors Route 3 - GMC Recognised or Equivalent Qualifications Some overseas qualifications are recognised by the GMC and accepted for registration purposes. This means to say these qualifications are considered as meeting the same standards as the Royal College qualifications. There are psychiatry qualifications from several countries around the world that are currently accepted by the GMC.  Find out if your qualification is accepted by the GMC here: Overseas accepted postgraduate qualifications Tier 2 Visa If you are a doctor applying from outside the EEA region you will almost certainly need to apply for a visa to work in the UK.  Applying as a doctor or nurse has never been easier and there is currently no-restriction on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) applications that a hospital can make. Furthermore, the list of specialties on the shortage occupation list is due for imminent review and expansion beyond its current list of specialties, potentially widening the scope for easier immigration processes across all specialties in healthcare. Understand Tier 2 visas and Certificates of Sponsorship in depth by taking a look at our article: Tier 2 Visa application process & documents needed Wondering whether you can relocate with your family? Take a look at our blog on the Tier 2 dependent visa below: Tier 2 Dependant visa - can i bring my family with me to the UK? GMC Registration With everything in place, you can apply for full registration with a license to practice with the GMC. Remember, for full GMC registration you must provide evidence of: Evidence of English language capabilities AND Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (PLAB, MRCEM/ FRCEM or equivalent) Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article here: GMC Registration for overseas doctors Job search We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for Non-EEA doctors in the NHS is increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!  At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for overseas doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of jobs than is readily available online.  Our network extends to Emergency Medicine services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.  In addition, your 1-1 consultant, with a specialty knowledge of emergency medicine, will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you get the most competitive salary.  Giving you the peace of mind of agreeing your new contract, perhaps even before your GMC registration is complete.  Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search Relocation Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK. Once you have secured your role in the UK, we will focus on supporting you and your family with all of your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help.  Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. Take a look here: IMG Resources – Relocation & UK Life IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding, CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS job & hospital locations for you.   For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

Passing any exam is not easy, passing the MRCEM OSCE examination, even more so. In speaking with IMGs about their journey through the MRCEM OSCE exams, we have heard many thoughts about what it takes to pass. To help IMGs preparing to take the test, here we share some tips from past examinees and OSCE course tutors.  Firstly, it is good to know that every IMG taking the test is in the same position as you, perhaps anxious about how to prepare and worried about the exam day. We are told that the exam is just an ordinary day on the ward, so why then do so many excellent practicing EM physicians struggle to pass at first attempt? It is perhaps important to say that we felt it was important to give advice from not just those IMGs who passed first time, but from those who had to learn from their mistakes and take the test a second or even third time.  In this article we take a broad look at some of the main reasons that good candidates have cited as contributing to their failure to pass.  The most common thing that we hear is that IMGs must adapt their skill set to the requirements of the NHS system as well as changing their mindset to be able to work under intense observation.  IMGs have told us that the main reasons they struggle are:  Nerves Lack of practice Lack of familiarisation with the test Lack of understanding of the curriculum  Not being able to communicate effectively  Reading and deciphering the instructions  Anxiety Experiencing anxiety during exams is completely natural and the fact that the OSCE stations are only 7 minutes adds to this in the Part C. The only way to combat exam anxiety is to accept that is both natural and inevitable. The best way to prepare and suppress the adrenergic surge is with practice, practice and more practice. The best way to practice is under exam conditions and if possible, this should be timed and observed by different examiners. We are not of the opinion that this practice should be done last minute in the week before the exam, instead, your practice should start long before this point. Ask your senior colleagues in the ED to observe and comment upon your history taking and examination skills. If you can get into a routine of doing this with 3 to 5 patients per day you will be able to run through nearly all the most likely scenarios in only 12 shifts. Another great strategy is to teach OSCEs to the more junior doctors within the department. Teaching can be a powerful learning tool and has helped many aspirants with their revision. Lack of practice Make no mistake – the exam is very tough. Over 50% of candidates failed the 2016 sitting. Unless you are freakishly good at cramming you will need to set aside at least 3 months to prepare. IMGs will all study in different ways. Remember you have been through many exams all on your own. Whatever revision method works for you, stick to it. Once you know that you are going to study, make a revision plan and stick to it.  Practice in any way that you can. As above, be sure to ask senior colleagues to observe and offer feedback to you on a regular basis on the EM ward.  To practice out of work, form a small group of colleagues who are also taking the test and run through role plays, taking turns to be patient, doctor or examiner.  Pay careful attention to time keeping as it is very common for candidates to run out of time, particularly in history taking and communication skills stations. Lack of familiarisation with curriculum If you don’t know what you could be tested on, you won’t know what to prepare. The MRCEM OSCE is mapped to the competences of Year 1-3 of the Emergency Medicine 2015 Curriculum which is available on the 2015 Curriculum page. You should familiarise yourself with the Year 1-3 competences in preparation for sitting this examination.   Not being able to communicate effectively  Many IMGs have made the mistake of thinking that communication is only about what you say, not considering how you say it, and what you look like when you are saying it. Of course, you may be anxious, which can make you behave differently and say things differently. So, if you have practiced as above, make sure you incorporate practicing communicating not just focusing on what you say, but also your body language when saying it. Remember that between 70% of our communication is non-verbal! Try to speak audibly and clearly and if at all possible, sit at the same level as the patient with an open posture. Attempt to make a connection with the patient, maintain good eye contact and give them your undivided attention. Treat actors and mannequins as if they are real patients, interact with them in the same way that you would on the EM ward. Be direct and to the point but deliver any bad news in a sensitive and empathetic manner. Always check whether the patient has understood what you have said and ask if they have any questions. Reading and deciphering the instructions  It is vitally important to read the instructions very carefully before entering a station. Easy marks are frequently lost by nervous or over-confident candidates that have overlooked key information or made assumptions by misreading. This is a mistake many IMGs have made, so learn from their mistakes and be sure to read everything carefully. Once read, make a plan of how you will approach the scenario. Once your minute is up… deep breath and smile!  IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding, CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS job & hospital locations for you.

Overseas doctors taking the postgraduate route to GMC registration must attain MRCEM. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) from any country in the world can sit the Royal College of Emergency Medicine examinations (MRCEM), provided certain eligibility criteria are met. FRCEM however can only be sat once practicing in the UK, so is not a suitable route for international doctors who have not yet practiced in the NHS. To help doctors understand the FRCEM and MRCEM exams the following guide will provide you with key information covering the exams, dates, fess, eligibility, preparation and application.  These are summarised below along with a broad look at the following topics: What is FRCEM and what is MRCEM? FRCEM Route MRCEM Route Eligibility for MRCEM Eligibility for FRCEM Where can I take the exam & how much will it cost me? How do I apply? How to prepare and what resources are available Should I take an MRCEM course? Passed? What next? What is the Royal College of Emergency Medicine? The Royal College of Emergency Medicine is the professional body responsible for the specialty of Emergency Medicine throughout the UK. Among many other duties, its role is to set and monitor the educational curriculum for those training to enter the profession in the UK. What is FRCEM and what is MRCEM? Membership or Fellowship of the Royal College is awarded to candidates who pass three examination components.  There have been a few changes to the MRCEM and FRCEM examination structure over the last few years, as such there are currently two routes to an accreditation in Emergency Medicine, both leading to RCEM Membership. These two routes are: Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM) Fellowship of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (FRCEM) MRCEM & FRCEM are one several routes an overseas emergency medicine doctor can take full GMC registration. Read our blogs on acceptable postgraduate qualifications and PLAB if you are unsure what route to take. For doctors who wish to take more senior roles reflective of their current practice, IMG Connect advise that MRCEM or FRCEM would be the best route to take. MRCEM Examination Route The alternative route, Membership by Examination (MRCEM), is offered to candidates who have passed all the following components: FRCEM Primary or (MRCEM Part A) One written paper, three-hours total FRCEM Intermediate SAQ (replaces MRCEM Part B) Short Answer Question paper - 3 hour paper comprised of 60, 3-mark questions MRCEM OSCE Practical examination setting with 18, seven-minute stations  FRCEM Examination Route The Fellowship Examinations consists of the following components: FRCEM Primary Examination one, three-hour written paper FRCEM Intermediate Certificate Short Answer Question Paper (SAQ) Situations Judgement Paper (SJP) FRCEM Final Examination  Critical Appraisal (Short Answer Question Paper) Quality Improvement Project (QIP) Clinical Short Answer Question Paper Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)  Membership or Fellowship of the Royal College is awarded to candidates who pass three examination components, using either route above.  Eligibility for MRCEM Examinations Eligibility for FRCEM Primary: To be eligible you must hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes. Eligibility for FRCEM Intermediate: To be eligible you must hold a PMQ recognised by the GMC, have completed an equivalent to the UK Foundation Programme and have passed FRCEM Primary Examination after 1st August 2016. You will also be eligible if you have been granted exemption from the FRCEM Primary as a result of obtaining MRCS or MRCSI after 1st January 2012. Eligibility for MRCEM OSCE: To be eligible to enter the MRCEM OSCE (Part C) you must meet the following requirements: Hold a medical qualification approved by the GMC and Have completed the UK Foundation Programme of equivalent (electronic evidence required at point of application) and Have passed the FRCEM Primary examination after 1st August 2016 or Have passed the MRCEM Part A examination after 1st August 2012 and prior to 31st July 2016 and Have passed the FRCEM Intermediate SAQ after 1st August 2016 or Have passed the MRCEM Part B examination after 1st August 2012 and prior to 31 July 2016 and Have 36 months experience including 6 months experience in Emergency Medicine at a level above Foundation Year 1 (post full registration) Eligibility for FRCEM Examinations Eligibility for FRCEM Primary: To be eligible you must hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes. Eligibility for FRCEM Intermediate: To be eligible you must hold a PMQ recognised by the GMC, have completed an equivalent to the UK Foundation Programme and have passed FRCEM Primary Examination after 1st August 2016. You will also be eligible if you have been granted exemption from the FRCEM Primary as a result of obtaining MRCS or MRCSI after 1st January 2012. Eligibility for FRCEM Final Examination: To be eligible you must have FRCEM Primary and FRCEM Intermediate Certificate, attained after 1st August 2016. Where can I take the exams & how much will they cost me? Examination and application dates are regularly updated by the Royal College and can be found here.  Please remember, applications made outside the application period will not be accepted. Examination Location Fees FRCEM Primary Short Answer Question Paper UK £310 Iceland, Malaysia, Oman, India £390 FRCEM Intermediate Certificate SAQ UK £305 Iceland, Malaysia, Oman £385 FRCEM Intermediate Cert. (SJP) UK £200 Kuala Lumpur £200 MRCEM OSCE UK £450 India £450 FRCEM Final Clinical SAQ UK £300 FRCEM Final Critical Appraisal SAQ UK £240 FRCEM Final QIP N/A £150 FRCEM Final OSCE London £420 How can I apply? All applications are made online and links to all application forms and windows are available here. It is worth noting, the application can take some time to complete, so it is always advisable to apply well in advance of the deadlines. Please remember, applications submitted after the application period will not be accepted. How do I prepare for each exam and what resources are available? With lots of resources available online, such as FRCEM Success, we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams. Curriculum: Applicants are tested on a range of common and important disorders in Emergency Medicine as set out in the Emergency Medicine Training Curriculum 2015. We recommend getting to know the curriculum as early as possible and using it as a road map for your study plan.  Information Packs: These provide detailed information for the relevant examination components so that you can best prepare for your studies and what to expect on the day: FRCEM Primary FRCEM Intermediate FRCEM Final Examination MRCEM OSCE SAQ Blueprint: The blueprint for the new Intermediate SAQ exam can be found on page 8 of the FRCEM Intermediate examination pack, downloaded from the RCEM website here. SJP Blueprint: A blueprint of the new Intermediate SJP exam can be found on page 11 FRCEM Intermediate examination pack, downloaded from the RCEM website here. Sample questions:  Test your knowledge using example questions from the current exam syllabus provided by the Royal College, see below: Primary – sample questions Intermediate Certificate – sample SJP questions Final – successful QIP Reducing referral rates of paediatric patients to plastic surgery Management of fractured neck of femurs in the ED Final – unsuccessful QIP Critical Appraisal Questions – Advice to Candidates  Critical Appraisal – Most Frequently Offered Answers Glossary of Terms:  The royal college uses many terms that may cause confusion, so take plenty time to understand the terms and definitions used in this guide. Candidates are expected to be rigorous in their use of these terms. Glossary of terms used in RCEM exams. Examination Report: The Royal College recently began to publish reports on the performance of those sitting FRCEM examinations. Below is the first report published and helps to break down results for those in training and those out of training.  2018 Examination report. Online resources:  There are lots of resources online, such as videos on YouTube, FRCEM courses and useful reading materials. We think that these are a great addition to your study plan, just be sure to check your sources.  For a useful overview of how to prepare for exams, including advice on study groups, online community support, best use of online resources & Royal College materials and courses, take a look at our blog: IMG Connects Top Tips for exam preparation. As ever at IMG Connect we believe in preparation. In order to succeed in the clinical exam, IMGs have told us that it is vital that you practice your clinical examinations as frequently as possible, preferably under the supervision of a senior colleague. This will give you confidence in approaching and examining patients with examiners present. Should I take a course to prepare for the OSCE? Whilst it is not essential to take a course when preparing for the MRCEM or FRCEM OSCEs - there is no doubt it will help your preparations both technically and mentally, and should be considered an investment towards your future career plans. Have a read of our blog on recommended MRCEM courses for Emergency Medicine doctors. You can find a full range of articles covering MRCEM and FRCEM examinatins to help you to make a success of your preparations here. Passed? What next?  First of all, congratulations! After you have passed all parts of FRCEM or MRCEM you can apply for a full registration with a license to practice. Once the GMC have approved your application, you can work as a doctor in the UK.  IMG Jobs  Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources In our IMG Resources library you can read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding, CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS job & hospital locations for you. For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

FRCEM is a crucial step when working towards either CCT or CESR in Emergency Medicine.  International Medical Graduates (IMGs) from any country in the world can sit some FRCEM examinations, provided certain eligibility criteria are met. For overseas doctors attaining FRCEM is not a route to GMC registration and you are better suited to the MRCEM pathway. These are summarised below along with a broad look at the following topics: What is FRCEM? FRCEM Route Eligibility for overseas doctors FRCEM Primary Examination FRCEM Intermediate Certificate FRCEM Final Examination As an overseas candidate where can I take the exam and how much will it cost me? How do I apply? How to prepare and what resources are available Passed? What next? What is FRCEM? Fellowship of the Royal College is awarded to candidates who pass three examination components.  There have been a few changes to the MRCEM and FRCEM examination structure over the last few years, as such there are currently two routes to an accreditation in Emergency Medicine, both leading to RCEM Membership. These two routes are: Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM) Fellowship of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (FRCEM) As of August 2018, applicants beginning the process will be able to sit one set of exams leading to the award of Fellowship of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (FRCEM). FRCEM is one of several routes an overseas emergency medicine doctor can take full GMC registration. Read our blogs on acceptable postgraduate qualifications and PLAB if you are unsure what route to take. For doctors who wish to take more senior roles reflective of their current practice, IMG Connect advise that MRCEM or FRCEM would be the best route to take. Understand the MRCEM pathway in this article above. FRCEM Examination route: The Fellowship Examinations consists of the following components: FRCEM Primary Examination one, three-hour written paper FRCEM Intermediate Certificate Short Answer Question Paper (SAQ) Situations Judgement Paper (SJP) FRCEM Final Examination  Critical Appraisal (Short Answer Question Paper) Quality Improvement Project (QIP) Clinical Short Answer Question Paper Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)  Eligibility for overseas doctors: FRCEM Primary: To be eligible you must hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes. FRCEM Intermediate: To be eligible you must hold a PMQ recognised by the GMC, have completed an equivalent to the UK Foundation Programme and have passed FRCEM Primary Examination after 1st August 2016. You will also be eligible if you have been granted exemption from the FRCEM Primary as a result of obtaining MRCS or MRCSI after 1st January 2012. FRCEM Final Examination: To be eligible you must have FRCEM Primary and FRCEM Intermediate Certificate, attained after 1st August 2016. However, the requirements make it incredibly dififcult to attain outside of the UK - so you are best advised to attain MRCEM, work in the UK and then work towards FRCEM whilst practicing in the NHS. The examination is conducted in English and candidates are advised that IELTS Level 7 is the expected standard for completion of the FRCEM examinations. Remember, you will need to have a pass of 7.5 average in all areas of IELTS to complete your GMC registration. FRCEM Primary Examination: The FRCEM Primary Examination is mapped to the Emergency Medicine 2015 Curriculum. More detailed information is provided in the RCEM Basic Sciences Curriculum (June 2010). The exam consists of one 3-hour paper of 180 single best answer questions (SBAQs) so you must choose one best answer from a choice of five feasible answers.  The paper will examine all the domains of knowledge in the Basic Sciences Curriculum including: Anatomy Physiology Pathology Microbiology Pharmacology Evidence Based Medicine FRCEM Intermediate Certificate: FRCEM Intermediate Certificate is comprised of two papers: Short Answer Question paper (SAQ): A single 3-hour paper of 60 questions, each worth 3 marks.  Unlike single best answer questions (SBAQs) you will not have the advantage of having a list of options to choose from. Instead you will have to compose your answer independently. The blueprint for the FRCEM intermediate is as follows: Curriculum Category Questions Common Competences 7 Clinical Presentations – Core Major & Acute Presentations  18 Anaesthetic Competences CT1&2 4 ICM within ACCS 2 Acute Presentations – Additional Adult ST3 6 Paediatric Presentations – Makor & Acute Presentations  11 Practical Procedures (ACCS) 12 Total  60 Situational Judgement Paper (SJP): A two-hour paper of 120 single best answer questions. This written paper is designed to test your ability to understand & respond appropriately to real world clinical situations, assessing you against the Common Competencies in the Emergency Medicine Training Curriculum 2015.  FRCEM Final Examination: From August 2018 the FRCEM Final consists of the following components: FRCEM Critical Appraisal (Short Answer Question Paper)  FRCEM Quality Improvement Project (QIP)  FRCEM Final Clinical Short Answer Question Paper  FRCEM OSCE  Each component tests individual skill sets and as such may be sat independently. FRCEM Critical Appraisal: A 90-minute Short Answer Question Paper. FRCEM Quality Improvement Project (QIP): This replaced the CTR from 1st August 2016. The QIP is a written submission that should be completed whilst working in Emergency Medicine at a level above ST3 or SHO. It should focus on quality improvement in Emergency Medicine, and may focus on either adult or paediatric Emergency Medicine. Any candidates who have not been awarded FRCEM by 31st July 2018, irrespective of any previous passes in CTR, are required to pass the new FRCEM QIP. Clinical Short Answer Question paper (SAQ): The SAQ is a 3-hour paper consisting of 60, 3-mark questions. A summarised blueprint for the FRCEM Final SAQ is as follows.  A fuller version can be found on the RCEM website here. HST Major and Acute Presentations 25 questions Additional Paediatric Practical Procedures 3 questions Practical Procedures (HST) 11 questions Ultrasound 3 questions Clinical Presentations - Core Major & Acute Presentations 6 questions Common Competencies 2 questions Anaesthetic Competences CT1&2 1 question ICM within ACCS 1 question Acute Presentations - Additional Adult ST3 2 questions Paediatric Presentations - Major & Acute Presentations 3 questions Practical Procedures (ACCS) 3 questions FRCEM Final OSCE: The exam is set in a practical setting and tests your ability to apply knowledge & experience directly to patients – rather than reciting learned knowledge. The exam consists of 16, 8-minute stations with one minute provided in between stations for reading time. As with many other final stages to Royal College exams – FRCEM Final OSCE will make use of manikins or actors and you will be observed by an examiner after being presented with a clinical case to assess. Examiners will not engage with you – only observe and mark. A brief summary of the curriculum for OSCE is found below: Stations Curriculum 1 Core Acute 2a Resuscitation 2b 3 Core Major 4 Common Competencies 5 Common Competences 6 Anaesthetic Competences 7a Paediatric Resuscitation 7b 8 Paediatric Acute 9 Paediatric Major 10 HST Major 11 HST and Adult Acute 12 Practical Skills 13 Paediatric Practical Skills 14 Non-technical Skills  As an overseas candidate where can I take the exam and how much will it cost me? Examination and application dates are regularly updated by the Royal College and can be found here.  Please remember, applications made outside the application period will not be accepted. Examination Location Fees FRCEM Primary Short Answer Question Paper UK £310 Iceland, Malaysia, Oman, India £390 FRCEM Intermediate Certificate SAQ UK £305 Iceland, Malaysia, Oman £385 FRCEM Intermediate Cert. (SJP) UK £200 Kuala Lumpur £200 FRCEM Final Clinical SAQ UK £300 FRCEM Final Critical Appraisal SAQ UK £240 FRCEM Final QIP N/A £150 FRCEM Final OSCE London £420 How can I apply? All applications are made online and links to all application forms and windows are available here. It is worth noting, the application can take some time to complete so it is always advisable to apply well in advance of the deadlines. Please remember, applications submitted after the application period will not be accepted.  How do I prepare for each exam and what resources are available? With lots of resources available online, we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams.  Curriculum:  Applicants are tested on a range of common and important disorders in Emergency Medicine as set out in the Emergency Medicine Training Curriculum 2015. We recommend getting to know the curriculum as early as possible and using it as a road map for your study plan.  Information Packs: These provide detailed information for the relevant examination components so that you can best prepare for your studies and what to expect on the day: FRCEM Primary FRCEM Intermediate FRCEM Final Examination SAQ Blueprint: The blueprint for the new Intermediate SAQ exam can be found on page 8 of the FRCEM Intermediate examination pack, downloaded from the RCEM website here. SJP Blueprint: A blueprint of the new Intermediate SJP exam can be found on page 11 FRCEM Intermediate examination pack, downloaded from the RCEM website here. Sample questions:  Test your knowledge using example questions from the current exam syllabus provided by the Royal College, see below: Primary – sample questions Intermediate Certificate – sample SJP questions Final – successful QIP Reducing referral rates of paediatric patients to plastic surgery Management of fractured neck of femurs in the ED Final – unsuccessful QIP Critical Appraisal Questions – Advice to Candidates  Critical Appraisal – Most Frequently Offered Answers Glossary of Terms:  The royal college uses many terms that may cause confusion, so take plenty time to understand the terms and definitions used in this guide. Candidates are expected to be rigorous in their use of these terms. Glossary of terms used in RCEM exams. Examination Report: The Royal College recently began to publish reports on the performance of those sitting FRCEM examinations. Below is the first report published and helps to break down results for those in training and those out of training.  2018 Examination report. Online resources:  There are lots of resources online, such as videos on YouTube, FRCEM courses and useful reading materials. We think that these are a great addition to your study plan, just be sure to check your sources.  For a useful overview of how to prepare for exams, including advice on study groups, online community support, best use of online resources & Royal College materials and courses, take a look at our blog: IMG Connects Top Tips for exam preparation. As ever at IMG Connect we believe in preparation. In order to succeed in the clinical exam, IMGs have told us that it is vital that you practice your clinical examinations as frequently as possible, preferably under the supervision of a senior colleague. This will give you confidence in approaching and examining patients with examiners present. Should I take a course to prepare for the OSCE? Whilst it is not essential to take a course when preparing for the MRCEM or FRCEM OSCE - there is no doubt it will help your preparations both technically and mentally, and should be considered an investment towards your future career plans. Have a read of our blog on recommended MRCEM courses for Emergency Medicine doctors. Passed? What next?  First of all, congratulations! After you have passed all parts of FRCEM, you will be on a firm path towards attaining your Specialist Registration in Emergency Medicine. FRCEM is not a route for GMC registration as doctors will already be in the UK, however those attaining MRCEM can do so from outside the UK, and use MRCEM as a route to GMC registration. For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.