The Geriatric Medicine Specialty Certificate Examination (SCE) is a crucial assessment for medical professionals specialising in the care of older adults. It serves as a benchmark for ensuring that trainees possess the comprehensive knowledge and skills required to provide high-quality care to the elderly. By assessing proficiency in geriatric medicine, the SCE helps maintain high standards within the specialty, promoting better patient outcomes and supporting the professional development of healthcare providers dedicated to this vital field.
1. What is the format of the Geriatric Medicine SCE?
The Geriatric Medicine SCE is a computer-based test divided into two sessions: Paper 1 in the morning and Paper 2 in the afternoon. Each paper lasts 3 hours, with a one-hour break between them. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions in a "best of five" format.
2. How often is the Geriatric Medicine SCE offered?
The Specialty Certificate Examination in Geriatric Medicine is administered every nine months.
3. What is the pass rate for the Geriatric Medicine SCE?
The pass rate for the Geriatric Medicine SCE is continuously reviewed and may change annually. The 2023 Geriatric Medicine examination was calibrated using the performance data of UK trainees from 2019, excluding the OTH group, consistent with other SCEs. In July 2022, the standards were reassessed based on 2019 UK trainees' performance, again excluding the OTH group, and the passing score was set at 415. This score will remain the benchmark for future exams until further review by the SCE Geriatric Medicine Examination Board. For the 2023 exam, a passing score of 415 corresponded to 58.8%, or 117 out of 199 questions.
4. How do I register for the Geriatric Medicine SCE?
For UK Candidates:
- Register online through the MRCP(UK)
- Pay the exam fee
- Receive a confirmation email
- Contact Pearson VUE to choose a test centre
- Receive a confirmation email from Pearson VUE
For International Candidates:
- Register online through the MRCP(UK)
- Request your test country and city
- Pay the exam fee
- Receive a confirmation email from Pearson VUE
International candidates do not need to book a test centre themselves. Pearson VUE will handle the booking and send a confirmation email three weeks before the exam.
It’s important to ensure you apply for your examination within the application period and have submitted your reasonable adjustment request by the reasonable adjustment deadline.
5. What is the content of the Geriatric Medicine SCE?
The Geriatric Medicine SCE covers a broad range of topics, including:
- General medicine in older people
- Geriatric assessment and management
- Falls and poor mobility
- Cognitive issues (Delirium and Dementia)
- Palliative care
- Stroke care
The full Geriatric Medicine SCE blueprint can be found here.
6. What are the entry requirements for the Geriatric Medicine SCE?
There are no specific entry requirements for the SCE in Geriatric Medicine. However, UK trainees are expected to complete the SCE by the end of ST5. Trainees who have earned the MRCP(UK), obtained the Certificate in Geriatric Medicine, and are recommended for a CCT will be eligible to use the postnominal MRCP(UK) (Geriatric Medicine).
7. How can I prepare for the Geriatric Medicine SCE?
Preparing for the Geriatric Medicine SCE requires a strategic and thorough approach to ensure success in this challenging exam. It is essential to start revising early and incorporate a variety of study materials to cover the extensive syllabus. At Learna | StudyPRN, we offer an extensive question bank specifically designed for those tackling the Geriatric Medicine SCE. With over 300 practice questions authored by experts in the field, our resource provides detailed explanations and high-quality images to improve your knowledge and understanding. The resource is continually updated, reflecting the latest guidelines and best practices, ensuring that candidates are well-prepared for the exam. Additionally, the Geriatric Medicine SCE revision resource offers performance analysis tools to help track progress and identify areas needing improvement, making it an invaluable tool for anyone serious about passing the Geriatric Medicine SCE.
If you are sitting the upcoming Geriatric Medicine SCE, we wish you the best of luck!