The OSCE Has Landed: One Small Step for British Psychiatry?

Objective: In the United Kingdom (UK), an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) has replaced the individual patient assessment (IPA) for part 1 of the membership examination of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych). The authors' assessment of the OSCE was conducted. Method: Residents completed and evaluated an OSCE designed according to guidelines set by the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Results: These residents considered the OSCE fair (86%) and appropriate (89%) in assessing clinical ability. They believed that the OSCE reflected the skills required in clinical practice and found it preferable to the IPA. Conclusion: The OSCE received positive evaluation from residents.