A breakdown of the PLAB 1 exam
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PLAB 1 is a written medical theory exam made up of 180 multiple choice questions which you need to answer in three hours. Each question starts with a short scenario followed by a question. You need to choose the right answer out of the five possible answers given.
The exam tests your ability to apply your knowledge for the care of patients. It doesn't test how well you can remember and recite facts. Questions relate to current best practices in the UK, and equipment routinely available in UK hospitals. You’ll need to answer the questions in relation to published evidence and not according to your local arrangements.
The exam covers the common, important or acute conditions (those common in emergency departments) seen by trainees entering the second year of the Foundation Programme (F2), which is the UK’s version of a medical internship, and the management of long-term conditions seen in primary care. It excludes the advanced duties of a general practitioner (GP).
These are the modules covered in PLAB 1 and that you need to make sure you know:
1. Blood and lymph
2. Breast
3. Cardiovascular
4. Child health
5. Digestive
6. Endocrine
7. Ear, Nose, Throat (ENT)
8. Ethical and professional
9. Eye
10. Genitourinary
11. Homeostatic
12. Infectious disease
13. Mental health
14. Musculoskeletal
15. Neurological
16. Older adults
17. Pharmacological
18. Renal
19. Reproductive
20. Respiratory
21. Seriously ill patient
22. Skin
23. Urological
The GMC makes available something they call “PLAB blueprint”. It allows you to see each module, what could be covered inside each of them and how to treat it. Use the following link to access the blueprint: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/plab/plab-test-blueprint/download-the-plab-blueprint
It can be an extensive test to study for, and preparing for it may be overwhelming, daunting and stressful. That’s why you need a guide to assist you every step of the way, make the preparation process as smooth, simple, effective and stress-free as possible and direct you to the right path. That way you can rest assured you’ll pass your exam on the first try and won’t have to spend more time and money and jeopardize your medical license by failing the exam and having to retake it. IELTS medical exists to be that guide for you!
To know how we can support you and assist you in this journey, get in touch by phone on +44 2036376722, email on doctors@iemedical.co.uk or WhatsApp on +44 7511 441874 and we’ll be happy to assist!
