GMC seeks views on the national professional examinations for specialist and GP training

The GMC is seeking views on aspects of the national professional examinations, which most doctors need to pass in order to become specialists or general practitioners.

The exams, along with workplace assessments, provide systematic assurance that only those with the right skills and knowledge can register with the GMC as specialists or GPs.

In the coming year, around 3,500 doctors are likely to join the GMC’s specialist register, with a further 2,300 entering the GP register.

The GMC is seeking views on three specific issues relating to the administration of the examinations:

• Currency – how long an exam pass should be valid for.
• Timing – how long a doctor can wait between passing an exam and entering or re-entering training.
• Number of attempts – whether there should be a limit on the number of times a doctor may attempt an exam.

This consultation is about the regulation of the exams, rather than their content. While the GMC approves specialty training curricula and assessment systems, the content is the responsibility of medical Royal Colleges, faculties, or associations.

In the longer term, the GMC plans to conduct a comprehensive review of its standards for curricula and assessment systems, reflecting its broadened remit as the regulator for all stages of medical education and training.

The consultation is open from now until 31 March 2011. You can find further information on the GMC consultations website.