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Examiner perceptions of the MRCGP recorded consultation assessment for general practice licensing during COVID-19: cross-sectional study.

Published version
Peer-reviewed

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Authors

Botan, Vanessa 
Cheung, Peter 
Freeman, Adrian 

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The Recorded Consultation Assessment (RCA) was developed rapidly during the COVID-19 pandemic to replace the Clinical Skills Assessment (CSA) for UK general practice licensing. Our aim was to evaluate examiner perceptions of the RCA. METHODS: We employed a cross-sectional design using a questionnaire survey of RCA examiners with attitudinal (relating to examiners thoughts and perceptions of the RCA) and free text response options. We conducted statistical descriptive and factor analysis of quantitative data with qualitative thematic analysis of free text responses. RESULTS: Overall, 182 of 260 (70%) examiners completed the questionnaire. Responders felt that consultations submitted were representative of the work of a typical GP during the pandemic and provided a good sample across the curriculum. They were also generally positive about the logistic, advisory and other support provided as well as the digital platform. Despite responders generally agreeing there was sufficient information available in video or audio consultations to judge candidates' data gathering, clinical management, and interpersonal skills, they were less confident about their ability to make judgments of candidates' performance compared with the CSA. The qualitative analysis of free text responses detailed the problems of case selection and content, explained examiners' difficulties when making judgments, and detailed the generally positive views about support, training and information technology. Responders also provided helpful recommendations for improving the assessment. CONCLUSION: The RCA was considered by examiners to be feasible and broadly acceptable, although they experienced challenges from candidate case selection, case content and judgments leading to suggested areas for improvement.

Description

Keywords

Research, Education, medical, postgraduate, Assessment, Licensing, General practice, COVID-19

Journal Title

BMC Med Educ

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

1472-6920
1472-6920

Volume Title

Publisher

Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Sponsorship
Royal College of General Practitioners (not applicable, not applicable, not applicable, not applicable, not applicable, not applicable, not applicable, not applicable, not applicable)