Trainee safety is paramount in decisions over exams, says College

The College has today written to all GP trainees with an update on arrangements for the MRCGP examination during the latest national lockdowns.

Professor Martin Marshall, Chair of the Royal College of GPs, said:  “We have written to all trainees today with an update on the arrangements for all three components of the MRCGP exam.

“The decision to cancel or continue with exams is not a simple one and it cannot be taken quickly or lightly without careful consideration of all the options

“The feedback we have received from trainees indicates no single approach which would work for everyone but we have listened to all perspectives and understand the concerns raised.

“We are going ahead with the January AKT as some trainees wish to continue with the exam and our test centres have been operating with safety procedures in place, including social distancing, for some time. This is in line with the latest advice from the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges.

“The safety of all trainees is paramount and we are in the process of putting alternative arrangements in place for those candidates who decide to defer. However, we advise trainees to speak with their Deaneries or LETBs before making any decision.

“We are in challenging times and we understand the added stress and anxiety the current situation is placing on trainees and we thank them for their ongoing professionalism and patience.”

Further information

(For media only)

RCGP Press office – 020 3188 7633/7494/7574

Out of hours: 0203 188 7659 

press@rcgp.org.uk

Notes to editor

The Royal College of General Practitioners is a network of more than 52,000 family doctors working to improve care for patients. We work to encourage and maintain the highest standards of general medical practice and act as the voice of GPs on education, training, research and clinical standards.