The Place Of The MRCP(UK) In Training

The MRCP(UK) Examination provides valid, reliable evidence of attainment in knowledge, clinical skills and behaviour and will be a mandatory component of assessment in the UK training curricula for Physicians.

From 2008 trainees will, as a minimum, be required to pass Part 1 as the knowledge-based assessment for core training (core medical training – CMT; basic neuroscience training – BNT; acute care common stem – ACCS) before progressing to ST3. The remaining elements of the MRCP(UK) Examination, Part 2 Written and PACES, will be mandatory elements for the award of a CCT in all specialities. However, the Colleges advise trainees to complete the MRCP(UK) as soon as possible after they start core training. Passing the MRCP(UK), although not essential to progress to ST3, is likely to inform the allocation into continuing specialty training.

If not completed during core training, the MRCP(UK) should be completed before the end of ST3 so that trainees can focus on other speciality assessments, including speciality-specific knowledge–based assessments currently under development. Failure to gain MRCP(UK) by this stage (ST3) may lead to recommendations for additional training (RITA D). Knowledge-based assessments are being developed for most physician specialties and will also be a mandatory requirement for obtaining a CCT. It is expected that trainees will have several opportunities to take these from ST3 onwards.

Further information about Core Medical Training (CMT), Specialty Training, Acute Care Common Stem (ACCS/M) or Fixed-Term Specialist Training Appointments (FTSTAs) is available from the JRCPTB website.