The MRCP(UK) is a highly regarded international benchmark of clinical excellence and relies heavily upon the voluntary support of Fellows of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK (Edinburgh, Glasgow and London) in examining to ensure its delivery. Examiners are experienced clinicians who are responsible for assessing candidates undergoing the Practical Assessment of Clinical Examination Skills (PACES) component of the MRCP(UK) examination.
Benefits include
- PACES examining is accepted by participating examiners as an excellent source of CPD
- Most UK Health Boards and NHS Trusts recognise it as a supporting professional activity for consultant staff
How examining could benefit you
'Examining can conjure up different ideas and perceptions to different individuals and does not in a word convey the professional opportunities which it provides.
As a new consultant with a young family, I frequently have to juggle my professional and personal commitments and may not fit many doctors’ idea of a stereotypical examiner. The time commitment, of 3 days over a year, is easy enough and provides great professional value in return. Examining is an excellent way of obtaining good general medical CPD, provides excellent networking opportunities (especially for relatively new consultants), is intellectually stimulating and also surprisingly enjoyable.
In addition to providing personal and professional value it also enables me to contribute to the maintenance of professionally-led examinations and medical standards. This is something I am passionate about and believe is in all of our interests.
If you have not previously considered examining, I would encourage you to do so. You may be pleasantly surprised.'
Dr. Adamson, is an Elected Member – Recently Appointed ConsultantCouncil, and Diabetes and Endocrinology consultant.
UK PACES Examining opportunities
Examiners must be prepared to make themselves available at least 3 days (6 cycles) a year although not necessarily consecutive to carry out examining duties.
To be eligible for PACES examining in the UK, you should:
- Be a Collegiate or Fellow of one of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK
- Be practising in some aspect of general medicine
- Have evidence of an interest or regular participation in educational activities
If you would like to learn more about becoming an examiner examining please refer to the attached links:
- For more information on the criteria and required commitments for appointment as a UK PACES Examiner, please read over 'Becoming an Examiner'.
- To apply, please complete and submit our online UK PACES Examiner Application Form.
If you need any further information, please contact us on: EdinburghExaminers@RCPE.ac.uk
International PACES Examining opportunities
There are also opportunities for experienced UK PACES examiners, who are interested in international PACES examining and meet all our International Criteria.
Please contact us on: EdinburghExaminers@RCPE.ac.uk for further information.