To ensure that trainees can continue to progress through training, we will be delivering the FRCA OSCE and SOE online using a platform called Practique, which has been developed recently to deliver clinical exams online during the pandemic using video-conferencing technology.

In this online delivery, both examiners and candidates will participate virtually from their home or workplace. 

Primary and Final SOE

There is no change to the format of the SOE. Only the delivery method has changed.

OSCE

The question types in the OSCE will be the same as in the face-to-face examination, with the exception of simulation. The simulation station will comprise a video of the simulation event, which will be viewed during the station. Equipment will be presented as a photograph. In communication questions that require a role-player, an actor will also be present by video link.  Stations requiring physical examination or assessment of technical skills have been modified for the virtual environment. 

Breakdown of changes to FRCA OSCE stations:

In a face-to-face delivery, the FRCA OSCE runs with 16 live stations and an additional two or three rest stations so a total of 18-19 stations. In the online delivery, there will be 14 live stations with a break of 5 minutes after the 7th station. 

The duration of the assessment time for each station remains the same (5 minutes) but additional time has been included to support any potential issues with internet connection. 

A breakdown of the stations in the online delivery is shown below:

Station 1: History 1

Station 2: Interactive resuscitation

Station 3: Anatomy

Station 4: Communication

Station 5: Anaesthetic Hazards

Station 6:Measuring & Monitoring

Station 7: History 2

Station 8: Simulation

Station 9: Clinical Data 1

Station 10: Anaesthetic equipment

Station 11:Clinical Data 2

Station 12:Anaesthetic Equipment

Station 13:Technical Skills

Station 14: Clinical Data 3

 

 

Proposed 14 live Stations

 

The same common adaptations made in the face-to-face OSCE for those candidates with a protected characteristic, such as additional time to read station scenarios, will be possible in the online delivery. In the FFICM OSCE, the station instructions have been shortened to allow more reading time. If a candidate struggles with reading on screen, an examiner may be asked to read out the exam instruction/text within a resource or a text magnification tool may be used. Since these exams may be conducted from the candidate’s home, candidates who are shielding will not be prevented from sitting.