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I passed! It’s been a difficult journey but I thank God for the end result.

Dr Lawrence Apenteng

Dr Lawrence felt completely crushed when he got his first SCA exam results. After a failed attempt with a score of 69, he found it incredibly difficult to bounce back.

The results shook his confidence. Despite the turmoil, he braced himself to re-sit SCA. A month before his exam, Dr Lawrence reached out for help. We had a conversation but time was not in his favour.

Overcoming self-doubts

We embarked on a journey together, one that wasn’t just about practising more cases but about shifting perspectives, starting with his mindset.

It is common for trainees to have a self-defeating mindset after an unsuccessful attempt. We addressed his lack of self-confidence.

Dr Lawrence had a lot of self-doubts. He was concerned about the looming SCA re-sit. However, we devised a clear strategy to optimise his preparation over the next four weeks. Instead of wasting precious time doing cases here and there, we focused on high-yield scenarios.

You can watch ​Dr Lawrence’s case study​ to learn about his unique preparation and the proven strategies he used to pass the SCA in his second attempt.

Turning point

He had to unlearn old habits, manage the fear of failure and embrace each consultation as an opportunity to connect and make a difference. It was about listening to understand, not just to respond, and seeing patients as stories waiting to be heard. With guidance and personalised support, Dr Lawrence leveled up his consultation and communication skills.

Slowly, I watched Lawrence transform. The doubt that once clouded his vision began to clear, replaced by a growing confidence. Dr Lawrence could start seeing a ray of light at the end of the tunnel.

In one role-play, Lawrence delivered difficult news to a patient. I could see the struggle in his eyes, the search for the right words. But when he found them, it was like watching a flower bloom in fast-forward.

When the exam day came around again, Dr Lawrence was confident. He strode in with the confidence of someone who had faced his fears and came out stronger on the other side.

When the results came in, he passed with a solid score. It was proof of his journey, of the resilience and strength he had found within himself. Lawrence didn’t just pass an exam but he overcame a hurdle that had once seemed insurmountable.

From SCA Exam failure to a clear pass

I was able to make it from 69 to 87 within a month. You can also make it do not lose hope there’s support and help available.

Dr Lawrence Apenteng

If you are facing setbacks, feeling the sting of failure, please seek help. Sometimes, all it takes is a shift in perspective, a bit of guidance, and the belief that you can overcome.

Don’t let failure define you. Let it teach you, let it strengthen you. Every setback is just a setup for an even greater comeback.

Are ready to get help?

Like Dr Lawrence, you may be feeling unsure about the SCA. The intensive 1 to 1 coaching is ideal if you need personalised support.

Join over 200 trainees who sought help to achieve their goals. Applications for 1 to 1 coaching are considered on an individual basis.

Failed MRCGP Exam

In the relentless pursuit of becoming a fully-fledged GP, Dr Charles encountered a big obstacle on his journey. He couldn’t clear the final part of the MRCGP Licensing Exam.

His journey was marked by a major setback after failing RCA exam by only one mark. Dr Charles didn’t let anger consume him in the face of adversity. He harnessed that anger to propel him towards conquering the challenges posed by SCA.

Fueled by a commitment not to fail again, Dr Charles embarked on a transformative journey of self-improvement.

Turning anger into fuel

Recognising the need for a change in approach, Dr Charles decided to work smarter. He used resources that GP trainees used to pass SCA exam.

As an IMG, it was particularly difficult for Dr Charles to be conversational and person-centered. Interpersonal skills let him down in the last sitting. He set his ego aside and was ready to receive help.

Taking full ownership

With constructive feedback, Dr Charles understood the flaws in his consultation. The SCA companion became a cornerstone in his preparation, enabling him to revise effectively. His thorough preparation not only equipped him to handle all cases with poise but also gave him hope.

Dr Charles emerged as a leader within his practice groups, taking advantage of collaborative learning to bolster his strengths. The systematic documentation of cases using a companion became a cornerstone, enabling him to consolidate his knowledge and refine his skills. Armed with a unique consultation style and the ability to connect naturally with patients, he was ready to sit SCA.

Passing SCA exam and CCT

After failing RCA by one mark, Dr Charles cracked SCA with a score of 85.5, securing a resounding success and achieving the coveted CCT on the same day.

Dr Charles’ journey serves as an inspirational testament to resilience. His journey is a prime example of the transformative power of embracing failure as a catalyst for growth.

Testimonial

“With the one on one session of Dr Kwun i must say it’s worth the funds invested on it. The first time i saw his page was through a random browsing seeking for some form of additional eyes to see my blind spots. I happened to work with him in my RCA but didn’t actually take on board all we usually discuss at the sessions. When i missed passing the RCA by one mark, anger enveloped me, i realised that am now going to face SCA which is a role play exam and this role play was what i detested during my time with Dr Kwun, i never liked role play as i considered it fake. but here am i saddled with SCA in less than 50 days. i had to use the anger as a fuel, wear the garment of humility and obedience to taking feedbacks onboard and truly strategically working on them and even going extra mile to find ways i can customise my own consulting to impress the examiner so as not to hover around pass mark again, i clearly wanted to pass far away from pass mark, the experience of missing the pass mark by one mark was the greatest nightmare in this journey. coming so close yet you can’t touch it. Dr Kwun has role plays which were so real and lookalike like the exam, then he gives you this surreal feedback that after working on my mindset i have started using the feedbacks better. unlike my first time where i became impervious to some feedbacks. my general basis of my issue in this exam both RCA and SCA were interpersonal skills as i have good grasp of data gathering and management but if you don’t gather data and manage with good interpersonal skills you will still suffer. First meaningful measure was to start using his consultation blue prints, the sca companion i chose to do it pen and paper way to take stock of all the cases i’ve practiced with their feedbacks and what was missed, then taking the lead and charge in all the groups i belonged to in practicing cases daily, twice a day. i must say courses may be expensive but installation payment made it easier. still hoping more discounts on case by case variant to make it affordable for some people whose situation is very dire. i knew i will pass the exam because i have obeyed all the rules of the game, even when i had issues in my first case at the exam which affected the second case, i had only ten cases to challenge the exam and i knew i will pass just that my desire of passing far away from pass mark was what i wasn’t so sure of. but surprisingly the two first cases that didn’t go well like desired were where i got two fail scores while the rest of the ten cases had only clear pass and pass scores and eventually 85.5 against pass mark of 77 out of 126. 

i will encourage anyone doing this exam again, i understand your anger it’s valid but tune it to be your fuel, please take on board all feedbacks, see the feedbacks as a challenge to disprove things just the  way i took them then cos DrKwun would always in his usual calm gentle manner dish out mind piercing feedbacks that can knock you off. 

Part of my self tasks is this, told myself that before this exam i must make Dr Kwun use the same voice he used to dish these disturbing feedback and say charles, i am satisfied and happy with your performance. for me that is the litmus. and i must encourage anyone using the services to use this litmus and have this mindset cos if you can make your greatest critic before the exam day i am satisfied with your works before the exam, the conversation forth with is not if you will pass but how high is your passing mark.” – Dr Charles, GP

The intensive 1 to 1 coaching is ideal if you need support to pass MRCGP SCA exam.

Applications for 1 to 1 coaching are considered on an individual basis.

Meet Dr Yoginee Gokool. She faced personal challenges and monumental doubts on her journey to conquering the Simulated Consultation Assessment (SCA) exam.

What challenges did Dr Yoginee face?

Dr Yoginee found herself at a crossroads, acutely aware of her weaknesses and the lack of a clear strategy for the impending SCA exam. The fear of the unknown loomed over her, creating a cloud of uncertainty.

I was struggling in terms of what do I actually need to do. It was as clear as mud to me.

Finding clarity amid uncertainty

The struggle intensified as she grappled with the uncertainty surrounding the exam. There was a lack of trusted guidance, leaving her more perplexed than before.

Her journey took a crucial turn when she sought expert guidance. She joined a thriving community that understood the depth of her struggles. The real pain and confusion she was experiencing were acknowledged and addressed. Inside the 1:1 coaching programme, we delved into the heart of her problems, unraveling the knots that hindered her progress.

One of Dr Yoginee’s primary obstacles was the lack of a clear plan. It was as if she was trying to find a needle in a haystack. Applying a step-by-step blueprint enabled her to find clarity in her preparation.

With newfound direction, Dr Yoginee began addressing her weaknesses head-on. The importance of active listening struck a chord with her, prompting a shift in her approach. She started to see cases not just as medical puzzles to solve but as narratives told by real people seeking help.

Overcoming doubts along the way

The journey, however, was not without its share of doubts. Dr Yoginee found solace and unwavering moral support in an unexpected yet steadfast source – her mother. Despite being miles away, her mother became a pillar of strength during the tumultuous times of doubt and uncertainty.

In the moments when self-questioning threatened to overshadow her determination, a comforting voice on the other end of the line reminded Dr Yoginee to believe in herself.

The looming exam day brought with it technical glitches and uncertainties. Dr Yoginee, armed with a whiteboard and strategies she had meticulously developed, navigated the challenges with a mix of determination and trepidation.

Post-exam, the waiting period felt like an eternity. Doubts resurfaced, and self-reflection became a constant companion. “There were moments when I questioned every decision I made during the exam. Did I introduce myself in every station? Did I miss crucial details?” she confessed.

Passing SCA exam first attempt

Relief washed over Dr. Yoginee as the long-awaited results finally arrived. The announcement that she had passed felt like a weight lifted off her shoulders. The struggles, the pain, and the doubts were not in vain – they had paved the way for a hard-earned victory.

Honestly, I couldn’t believe it. There were so many stations where I felt lost.

In the face of uncertainties and endless doubts, Dr Yoginee emerged triumphant, successfully conquering the challenges posed by the SCA exam. The victory holds a significance beyond the professional realm, for Dr Yoginee can now eagerly anticipate a heartfelt reunion with her mother – a long overdue reunion, with the last visit dating back to 2019.

The intensive 1 to 1 coaching is ideal if you need support to pass MRCGP SCA exam.

Applications for 1 to 1 coaching are considered on an individual basis.

Tick-tock goes the clock in the high-stakes SCA exam. Every second counts. In this race against time, vague or meandering questions are luxuries a trainee can’t afford.

Picture this: every question as a strategic move forward, a key unlocking your success. Intrigued? In this article, we delve deep into the science and art of asking questions, your edge in taking a targeted history.

Genuine Curiosity

According to Roger Neighbour, former RCGP examiner, curiosity is vital in the SCA exam. Great doctors are inherently curious, constantly seeking to understand the intricacies of each patient’s unique journey. You not only enhance your diagnostic abilities but also reassure patients that you value their concerns by cultivating curiosity.

Ask questions that convey genuine interest in the patient’s wellbeing, such as

“I’m curious to know more about your experiences. Can you share any specific triggers for your symptoms?”

Demonstrating curiosity fosters trust, encourages open communication, and empowers patients to actively participate in their healthcare decisions.

Timing is Everything

The timing of questions is crucial. GP trainees often explore the patient’s health agenda in the wrong order. A common pitfall is asking idea, concern and expectations too late in data gathering. Discovering a patient’s concern about a brain tumor just six minutes into the consultation? That’s your cue to ensure you have thoroughly ruled out any relevant red flags. If you identify the patient’s worry about brain cancer within two minutes of the consultation, you can seize the opportunity to focus on their medical history.

In sensitive moments, choosing the right moment to ask probing questions can go a long way. Consider saying, “I can see this is challenging for you. Would you mind sharing more about how you’ve been coping?” Timing not only influences the quality of information but also shapes the patient’s perception of your attentiveness and care.

Balancing Open and Closed Questions

Effective communication begins with understanding the dynamics of open and closed questions. Closed questions, typically answered with a simple “yes” or “no,” are instrumental for obtaining specific information. However, in the early stages of consultation, favouring open questions can set the tone for a more engaging and patient-centered interaction.

Open questions encourage patients to share their narratives, providing valuable insights into their concerns and perspectives. “Can you tell me more about your headache?” or “How has this pain been affecting your daily life?” are examples of open questions that invite patients to express themselves freely, creating a foundation for a collaborative and empathetic relationship.

Effective questions

The art of asking questions extends beyond the sheer number of questions. Don’t feel pressured to fire off an exhaustive list of questions. Instead, direct your attention to asking high-quality questions. The brilliance of your history-taking is determined by the quality of questions.

Listening is crucial to ask better questions. Develop an arsenal of thought-provoking inquiries that delve into the emotional and psychological aspects of a patient’s experience. “What are your main concerns about HRT?” is an example of a question that stimulates reflective responses, fostering a deeper connection.

Responding to Cues

The journey of inquiry doesn’t end with the initial response. Skillfully crafted follow-up questions demonstrate active listening and responding to the patient’s cues. “You mentioned X; can you elaborate further on that?” or “How has your experience with previous treatments influenced your preferences for the current approach?” are examples of follow-up questions that enrich the conversation and refine your understanding.

Unlock the richness of each patient’s story by honing your question-asking skills. Strive for a harmonious blend of open and closed queries, carefully consider the timing of your inquiries, prioritise quality over quantity, and infuse your consultations with genuine curiosity.

By honing these skills, doctors can elevate their communication and consultation prowess, forging stronger connections with patients and ultimately delivering more personalised and effective care.

How Dr Lawrence passed SCA?

After a failed SCA attempt with a score of 69, Dr Lawrence’s confidence was crushed. Check out how Dr Lawrence conquered SCA after this major setback.

Are you feeling stressed about the SCA exam?

GP Trainees often feel anxious because of fear of the unknown or uncertainty. The SCA exam is daunting but with the correct preparation, you can succeed. In this article, you will learn seven actionable tips to boost your confidence.

Identify Your Limiting Beliefs

The first step to overcoming any obstacle is acknowledging its existence. What beliefs are holding you back from excelling in your exam?

Is it the fear of failure, imposter syndrome, or simply the feeling of being overwhelmed? Write them down and confront each one head-on.

Reframe Your Mind

Replace your limiting beliefs with empowering ones. Instead of “I can’t pass this exam,” turn it into “I’m capable of passing my exam with dedication and effort.” Your mind is your most powerful tool. It can work wonders when directed positively.

Set Clear Goals

Define specific, measurable, and achievable goals. Break big goals down into smaller manageable goals. Create a roadmap to success. This will not only give you direction but also boost your motivation.

Join a community

Preparing for SCA alone is miserable. Reach out to colleagues and mentors for help. Consider joining a study group.

A common problem is coordinating study sessions due to the level of commitment of other trainees and busy schedules. A group works best when all trainees are planning to sit the SCA exam around the same date.

Looking for an SCA buddy?

Connect with like-minded GP trainees by joining our Facebook Support group for free

Building Confidence

Spend some time each day visualising yourself excelling in your SCA exam. Picture yourself managing challenging scenarios.

Work on your communication and consultation skills. Keep track of the progress you make. By showing yourself evidence you are developing your competence, your confidence will catch up.

Practice Consistently

Success is not an accident. It’s the result of consistent effort. Schedule time daily for your exam preparation. Practise, revise, and reinforce your knowledge. The more you practise, refine and adjust your consultation the more competent you become. High-performing candidates embed good practices that eventually become second nature.

Stay Optimistic

Being optimistic is important, particularly when things don’t go to plan. Setbacks are a natural part of any journey. Use them as opportunities to learn and grow stronger.

With the right mindset and preparation, you’ll not only conquer your exam but also become the GP you aspire to be.

How Dr Yoginee passed SCA exam?

Dr Yoginee was consumed by self-doubts and fears. Check out how she conquered her fears and passed SCA on her first attempt.