Course Structure

The course is divided into six detailed modules, each focusing on different aspects of the PLAB 1 exam content. The curriculum includes lectures, practical exercises, case studies, mock exams, and guest lectures to provide thorough preparation.

Module 1: INTRODUCTION TO PLAB 1

• Overview of PLAB 1: Introduction to the PLAB 1 exam, including its purpose, structure, and key components.
• GMC Standards and Guidelines: Study of the GMC's standards for proficiency and guidelines for medical practice.
• Preparation Strategies: Effective strategies for preparing for the PLAB 1, including study plans and time management.
• Technological Tools for PLAB 1 Preparation: Use of online resources, practice questions & study apps for PLAB 1 preparation.

Module 2: CLINICAL MEDICINE AND SURGERY

• Clinical Medicine: Comprehensive review of clinical medicine topics, including cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal endocrine, and neurological systems.
• Surgical Principles: Study of surgical principles and common surgical conditions.
• Case Study: Analysis of complex clinical scenarios to apply theoretical knowledge to practice.
• Mock Tests: Practice exams to simulate the PLAB 1 testing experience.

Module 3: ETHICS AND PROFESSIONALISM

• Medical Ethics: In-depth exploration of medical ethics, including autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence & justice.
• Professional Conduct: Understanding the professional conduct expected of doctors in the UK.
• Legal Aspects of Medical Practice: Overview of the legal responsibilities and liabilities of doctors practising in the UK.
• Patient Advocacy: Training on how to advocate for patients' rights and needs within the healthcare system.

Module 4: CDOENMTMAUL NPRICOASTIHOENT IACNSD & I NOTRETRHPOEDRSOONNTAICLS SKILLS

• Effective Communication: Techniques for effective communication with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
• Cultural Competence: Understanding and respecting cultural differences in patient care.
• Interprofessional Collaboration: Strategies for working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals.
• Patient Education & Health Promotion: Skills for educating patients about their health & promoting healthy behaviours

Module 5: DIAGNOSTIC SKILLS AND CLINICAL PROBLEM SOLVING

• Diagnostic Techniques: Training on various diagnostic techniques and tools.
• Clinical Problem Solving: Developing clinical problem-solving skills through case-based learning.
• Interpretation of Medical Tests: Understanding and interpreting common medical tests and investigations.
• Mock Tests: Additional practice exams focusing on diagnostic skills and clinical problem-solving.

Module 6: FINAL PREPARATION AND MOCK EXAMS

• Comprehensive Review: Thorough review of all course content in preparation for the PLAB 1 exam.
• Mock Exams: Full-length practice exams to simulate the actual PLAB 1 exam, including timed sections and realistic question formats.
• Review and Feedback Sessions: Detailed feedback on mock exam performance, identifying areas of strength and areas needing improvement.
• Test-Taking Strategies: Tips and techniques for approaching different types of PLAB 1 questions & managing exam stress.
• Study Groups: Formation of study groups for peer support and collaborative learning.

Course Delivery

• Duration: 6 months (twice a week )
• Format: Blended learning approach with a mix of online and in-person sessions.
• Assessment: Continuous assessment through projects, presentations, case studies, practical exercises & mock exams.

Eligibility Criteria

To enrol in the Professional Competency Certification in PLAB 1 Preparation, candidates must:

• Hold a primary medical qualification that is acceptable for limited registration with the General Medical Council (GMC).
• Demonstrate proficiency in English, typically evidenced by an IELTS score of at least 7.5 overall, with a minimum of 7.0 in each component, or an OET score of at least grade B in each component.

Sample Certificate