Sentry Page Protection
Please Wait...
Communication Station 7
Explain to the following medical student the difference between 5 year and 6 year undergraduate medical programmes and the advantages/disadvantages of completing a BSc.
Average Candidate Response
An overly direct approach, with no initial overview, end summary or opportunities to ask questions. There may also be a lack of awareness regarding the advantages and disadvantages of completing a BSc.
An overly direct approach, with no initial overview, end summary or opportunities to ask questions. There may also be a lack of awareness regarding the advantages and disadvantages of completing a BSc.
Excellent Candidate Response
Example Advantages of Completing a BSc
Example Disadvantages of Completing a BSc
- Introduction
- State the end objective(s)
- Empower the examiner/patient to ask questions (eg. Do you have any questions at the moment? If you have any questions at any time, feel free to interrupt me)
- Identify any relevant materials/terms
- Provide clear, specific instructions
- Summary and plan going forward
Example Advantages of Completing a BSc
- The BSc offers an opportunity to further one's knowledge in an area of medical/non-medical interest
- The BSc often provides research and publication opportunities for students, as well as helping to advance and develop existing scientific research.
- Completing a BSc also provides medical students with additional points for Foundation Programme applications
- Having the opportunity to learn more about a specific field (that you have a specific interest in) is invaluable before you decide to spend 5+ years specialising in that area.
Example Disadvantages of Completing a BSc
- There are a limited number of BSc options available compared to the overall number of medical specialities
- The BSc delays medical student graduation, which given the current shortfall in doctors is not preferable
- The BSc requires an additional year of medical school with its associated financial costs to students and subsidising governments
- The majority of BSc are academic rather than clinical. Hence, it may be argues that they are not representative of clinical practice in that field.