To effectively manage time and demonstrate competency in the RACGP Clinical Competency Exam (CCE), candidates should follow these strategies:

For Case Discussions

Use the 5-Minute Reading Time

Quickly review case information and make brief notes to organize your thoughts3. Use this time to form a problem list and list of differential diagnoses3.

Let Examiner Guide Timing

The examiner will manage the time and direct the discussion3. Be prepared for interruptions to stay on track.

Communicate Doctor-to-Doctor

Use appropriate medical terminology and be concise in your responses3.

Prioritize Key Issues

Identify the most important clinical reasoning points and address ethical or legal considerations promptly3.

For Clinical Encounters

Set an Agenda Early

Quickly establish the patient’s main concerns3. Ask “Is there anything else I can help you with?” to uncover additional issues1.

Demonstrate Active Listening

Allow the patient to speak uninterrupted initially3. Use verbal and non-verbal cues to show you’re listening4.

Prioritize Tasks

Focus on covering all aspects of care asked in the questions3. Allocate your time wisely, roughly 3 minutes per question if there are 5 questions3.

Use Efficient Communication

Ask open-ended questions and use reflective statements to confirm understanding3. Provide clear, concise explanations.

Maintain a Patient-Centered Approach

Explain medical terms in plain language and check patient understanding throughout3.

Create a Problem List

Include differential diagnoses and address each issue systematically3.Remember to practice regularly, as this is crucial for success4. Use the Zoom platform to prepare for the remote delivery of the exam4. By following these strategies and avoiding common mistakes, you can improve your performance in the CCE.

we’ll discuss strategies that apply to both case discussions and clinical encounters.

Practice Time Management

One of the most crucial skills for success in the CCE is effective time management. Here’s how to develop this skill:

• Use mock exams to get comfortable with the 15-minute timeframe. This practice will help you develop a sense of pacing.
• Work on developing a mental “clock” to keep track of time without constantly checking a watch or clock.

Be Efficient but Thorough

Quality over quantity is key in the CCE. Here’s how to achieve this balance:

• Focus on the quality of your communication rather than trying to cover every possible topic.
• Use decision aids or standardized questions as guides to ensure you’re covering all necessary areas efficiently.

Summarize Key Points

Towards the end of each case:

• Recap the important information you’ve gathered or discussed.
• Ensure all major issues have been addressed.

Cover Key Competency Areas

Remember, the exam is assessing your skills across several domains:

• Communication and consultation skills
• Clinical information gathering and interpretation
• Diagnosis, reasoning, and management skills
• Preventive and population health considerations
• Professional attitudes and behaviors

Make sure you’re demonstrating competency in each of these areas throughout the exam.

Utilize Reading Time Effectively

In the 5 minutes before each case:

• Review case details and make brief notes
• Begin forming a structured plan for the encounter or discussion

Demonstrate Active Listening

Whether you’re interacting with a patient or the examiner:

• Allow time for input without interruption
• Use verbal and non-verbal cues to maintain engagement

Summarize and Provide Clarity

At the end of each case:

• Briefly summarize key information
• Provide written instructions if appropriate, especially in clinical encounters

Manage Time Effectively

A good rule of thumb is:

• Allocate roughly 3 minutes per question or task if there are 5 key points to cover
• Allow extra time for history taking as it forms the basis for management

Remember, regular practice is crucial for success. Use the Zoom platform to prepare for the remote delivery of the exam. By implementing these strategies and continuously refining your skills, you’ll be well-prepared for the CCE.