If you're a medical professional specialising in gastroenterology and hepatology, you may be familiar with the Specialty Certificate Examination (SCE) offered by The European Section and Board in Gastroenterology and Hepatology (ESBGH) and by its parent body the European Union of Medical Specialist (UEMS). The SCE serves as an assessment tool to evaluate your knowledge and skills in this field. In this blog post, we will address some frequently asked questions about the Gastroenterology and Hepatology SCE and provide you with the information you need to know.
How often is the European Specialty Exam in Gastroenterology & Hepatology (ESEGH) offered?
The ESEGH is typically held annually. However, it is important to note that the specific dates and scheduling may vary from year to year. Aspiring candidates should stay updated through official channels such as the European Board of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (EBGH) and the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE), as they will provide the most accurate and timely information regarding exam dates, registration deadlines, and other relevant details.
What is the duration of the European Specialty Exam in Gastroenterology & Hepatology (ESEGH)?
The ESEGH consists of two papers, each lasting three hours. Paper 1 focuses on gastroenterology, while Paper 2 covers hepatology.
What is the pass rate for the European Specialty Exam in Gastroenterology & Hepatology (ESEGH)?
In 2022, the European Specialty Exam in Gastroenterology and Hepatology (ESEGH) underwent a process of equating the exam using the performance of UK trainees in 2019, similar to other Specialty Certificate Examinations (SCEs). The examination standards were assessed and reviewed in June 2022. The passing score for the 2022 ESEGH exam was established at 432, which corresponds to a percentage of 61.5% or 123 out of 200 marks. It's important to note that the pass score of 432 will be maintained until further examination board review by the ESEGH.
How do I register for the European Specialty Exam in Gastroenterology & Hepatology (ESEGH)?
To apply for a European Specialty Examination (ESE), the process is conducted exclusively online through the My MRCP(UK) exam service.
Access the online application service by visiting the Upcoming Exams section on the My MRCP(UK) platform. This service is available to all candidates interested in applying for an ESE. Make sure to check the examination dates to determine the period during which online applications are accepted for upcoming exams.
Here is the step-by-step application process for candidates:
For UK Candidates:
- Register online through My MRCP(UK). At this stage, you have the option to request any necessary special arrangements.
- Pay the applicable examination fee.
- Receive a confirmation email automatically generated upon successful application.
- Contact Pearson VUE to select a test centre. Refer to the exam dates calendar for the opening of the Pearson VUE booking window.
- Receive a confirmation email from Pearson VUE containing details about the assigned test centre.
For European Section and Board of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (ESBGH) full member, associate member, observer country, and other international candidates:
- Register online through My MRCP(UK). During registration, you can indicate any required special arrangements.
- Request the desired test country and city.
- Pay the relevant examination fee.
- Receive a confirmation email automatically generated upon successful application.
- Within four weeks of the examination date, receive a test centre confirmation email from Pearson VUE.
Please note that the European Specialty Examinations (ESEs) are computer-based and conducted at Pearson VUE test centres located in the UK and internationally.
It is crucial to visit the official ESEGH website or contact the ESEGH Examination Board directly for accurate and detailed information regarding the registration process. They will provide the most up-to-date instructions, deadlines, and requirements for registering for the European Specialty Exam in Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
What is the cost of the European Specialty Exam in Gastroenterology & Hepatology (ESEGH)?
The examination fees for the ESEGH vary depending on the candidate's location. As of 2023, the fee structure is as follows:
| Candidate Location | Exam Fee |
|---|---|
| UK | £700 |
| ESBGH full member, associate member, and observer countries* | €800 |
| All other countries and territories | £875 |
Note: *ESBGH refers to a specific organisation or group of countries.
Please note that the fee structure may be subject to change, and it is advisable to refer to the official ESEGH website or contact the ESEGH Examination Board for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding examination fees.
*You can find a defined list of countries eligible for the reduced fee here.
How can I prepare for the European Specialty Exam in Gastroenterology & Hepatology (ESEGH)?
Preparing for the ESEGH requires a systematic and comprehensive approach. Here are some strategies to help you prepare effectively:
- Understand the exam format: Familiarise yourself with the structure, question types, and time constraints.
- Create a study plan: Cover all relevant topics and allocate time for revision.
- Utilise reliable resources: Gather high-quality study materials aligned with the latest advancements.
- Practice with past papers: Solve questions to understand formats and assess your skills.
- Join study groups or courses: Collaborate with peers and experts to enhance your understanding.
- Stay updated with guidelines and research: Keep up-to-date with advancements in the field.
- Simulate exam conditions: Practise answering questions within time constraints to improve speed and decision-making.
- Seek mentorship and guidance: Get support from experienced professionals.
- Take care of your well-being: Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support focus and retention.
- Revise and consolidate: Review key concepts and reinforce weaker areas.
Effective ESEGH preparation requires dedication, effort, and a balanced approach. Tailor your plan to your strengths and weaknesses, and stay motivated throughout the process.
What is the content of the European Specialty Exam in Gastroenterology & Hepatology (ESEGH)?
The content of the ESEGH is designed to assess a candidate's knowledge and competence in the field. The exam covers various aspects of gastroenterology and hepatology, including clinical scenarios, diagnostic techniques, management strategies, and evidence-based practices. While the specific content may vary from year to year, the following areas are typically included:
Gastroenterology:
- Gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology
- Gastrointestinal diseases and disorders (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease, gastrointestinal malignancies, motility disorders)
- Endoscopy and interventional techniques
- Nutritional disorders and support
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Gastrointestinal emergencies
- Gastrointestinal motility disorders
Hepatology:
- Hepatic anatomy and physiology
- Liver diseases (e.g., viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma)
- Liver transplantation
- Liver imaging and biopsy interpretation
- Hepatic complications (e.g., hepatic encephalopathy, hepatorenal syndrome)
- Hepatic manifestations of systemic diseases
- Viral hepatitis management and treatment
- Liver failure and support
The exam typically consists of two papers: Paper 1 focuses on gastroenterology, while Paper 2 covers hepatology. The questions in these papers can be in various formats, such as multiple-choice questions (MCQs), extended matching questions (EMQs), and clinical scenario-based questions.
It's important to note that the specific content and weightage of topics may be updated periodically to align with current developments in the field of gastroenterology and hepatology. Candidates are advised to refer to the official resources provided by the European Specialty Examination in Gastroenterology and Hepatology (ESEGH) for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the exam content.
Are there any recommended study materials for the European Specialty Exam in Gastroenterology & Hepatology (ESEGH)?
When preparing for the ESEGH, it is essential to utilise reliable and comprehensive study materials. While there are several resources available, one recommended study resource is StudyPRN's ESEGH revision resource.
The resource covers a wide range of topics in gastroenterology, including gastrointestinal diseases, diagnostic techniques, management strategies, and clinical scenarios. It provides detailed explanations, high-quality visuals, and practice questions to test your knowledge and understanding.
You can access the StudyPRN ESEGH revision resource here.
By utilising StudyPRN's ESEGH revision resource, you can enhance your preparation for the ESEGH and gain a deeper understanding of the key concepts and topics in gastroenterology and hepatology. It is important to note that while this resource is recommended, it is also beneficial to consult additional textbooks, guidelines, research articles, and other reputable sources to ensure comprehensive coverage of the exam content.
Remember to always refer to the official ESEGH resources and guidelines provided by the examination board for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the exam and recommended study materials.