Master the SCA Exam
Your final step to becoming a qualified GP
The Simulated Consultation Assessment (SCA) is your final hurdle as a GP ST3 trainee. This comprehensive exam evaluates your clinical skills, communication abilities, and professional competence through realistic patient interactions.
13 Stations
10 minutes each with 2-minute breaks
Trained Actors
Realistic patient scenarios across all ages
3 Core Domains
Clinical, interpersonal, and professional skills
Assessment Domains
🩺 Clinical Management
Gather information, examine, diagnose, and create safe management plans
💬 Interpersonal Skills
Communicate effectively, show empathy, and engage in shared decision-making
⚖️ Professional Values
Demonstrate ethical practice, cultural sensitivity, and professional standards
Proven Revision Strategies
Evidence-based techniques to maximize your SCA success
📚 Foundation Knowledge
Master the RCGP Curriculum
Focus on high-impact areas: cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental health, women's health, and pediatrics.
Know Your Guidelines
Stay current with NICE guidelines and create quick reference cards for common conditions.
Red Flag Recognition
Develop systematic approaches to identify serious conditions requiring urgent attention.
🎯 Practical Skills
Structured Practice Sessions
Role-play with peers and trainers, simulating exam conditions including time constraints.
Timed Consultations
Master the 10-minute format with concise history taking and focused examinations.
Video Review & Feedback
Record practice sessions to analyze your consultation style and receive peer feedback.
💬 Communication Excellence
Active Listening & Empathy
Practice genuine engagement through eye contact, nodding, and emotional validation.
Clear Communication
Explain medical concepts in plain English, using analogies and avoiding jargon.
Shared Decision Making
Involve patients in care decisions, discussing options, benefits, and risks clearly.
📝 Exam Preparation
Mock Examinations
Participate in formal mock exams through your deanery or training program.
Interactive Practice
Use revision platforms and courses for the best techniques to help you pass the exam and unlimited realistic case scenarios.
Stress Management
Develop coping strategies, maintain work-life balance, and practice relaxation techniques.
Common SCA Scenarios
Master the key consultation types you'll encounter
🚨 Acute Presentations
Test your ability to quickly assess urgent conditions while maintaining excellent communication.
Key Focus Areas:
- Systematic assessment and red flag identification
- Clear safety-netting advice
- Appropriate urgency of referral
📋 Chronic Disease Management
Manage patients with established long-term conditions effectively.
Key Focus Areas:
- Current guideline knowledge
- Treatment effectiveness review
- Lifestyle modification motivation
🧠 Mental Health Consultations
Handle sensitive mental health presentations with empathy and professionalism.
Key Focus Areas:
- Validated screening tools
- Risk assessment techniques
- Empathy with appropriate boundaries
👶 Pediatric Cases
Communicate effectively with children and their parents or carers.
Key Focus Areas:
- Age-appropriate communication
- Involving children in consultation
- Safeguarding awareness
🩺 Women's Health
Handle sensitive women's health topics with respect and cultural awareness.
Key Focus Areas:
- Cultural sensitivity
- Patient autonomy respect
- Professional boundaries
👴 Elderly Care
Address complex needs of older patients with multiple comorbidities.
Key Focus Areas:
- Holistic assessment
- Medication reviews
- Quality of life discussions
Essential SCA Resources
Curated links to boost your preparation
🏛️ Official RCGP Resources
📖 Clinical Guidelines
🎓 Other Revision Platforms
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