The most challenging aspects of the ACRRM CBD

The most challenging aspects of the ACRRM Case Based Discussion exam

The most challenging aspects of the ACRRM Case Based Discussion (CBD) exam appear to be:

Case selection and submission:

Candidates must submit 12 de-identified patient cases covering at least 6 curriculum areas.
Cases must be of medium complexity in general practice or high risk in emergency settings.
Cases must be from within the last 6 months.

Breadth of knowledge required:

The exam covers a wide range of curriculum areas and domains of practice.
Candidates must demonstrate competence across multiple aspects of patient care.

Clinical reasoning and application:

The exam assesses not just knowledge, but the application of that knowledge in clinical contexts.
Candidates must demonstrate sound clinical reasoning in formulating differential diagnoses, ordering investigations, and developing management plans.

Time management:

The exam involves discussing 6 cases over three 1-hour sessions.
Candidates must efficiently cover all aspects of patient care within the time constraints.

Adapting to different assessors:

Each of the three sessions is conducted by a different assessor.
Candidates must adapt to potentially different questioning styles and focuses.

Quality standards:

To pass, candidates must achieve ‘at expected standard’ in 5 out of 6 cases.
The expected standard is high, requiring consistent competence across all grading categories.

Comprehensive patient-centered approach:

Candidates must demonstrate a systematic, patient-centered approach that considers medical, cultural, ethical, and psychosocial factors.

Reflection and self-assessment:

The exam may require candidates to critically appraise their own performance and discuss how they would improve their practice.

These challenging aspects test not only clinical knowledge but also the candidate’s ability to apply that knowledge in complex, real-world scenarios while demonstrating professional and patient-centered care.References: