GPST / GPVTS SELECTION PROCESS

Compiled by Shahzad Asghar Arain

Shahzad.cdcu@gmail.com
Cell:92-334-9564004
Stage 1 - Online application form
The first step in getting into a GPST training

program...................................................................................................................................
Stage 2: Two written papers (2 x 90 minutes) -
This is the first real selection process that you will be subjected to. Stage 2 consists of two
papers lasting 90 minutes each, which are designed to test your level of clinical competence
as well as your interpersonal and lateral thinking capacities.

Paper 1: Clinical Problem Solving

This paper consists of approximately 100 clinical questions or scenarios, which
you must answer within 90 minutes (so this makes on average is less than 1
minute to read and answer each question). The questions come in a variety of
formats. In 2006, they were of a True/False nature, but over the past few
recruitment sessions they were set as of MCQs (Best of Five) and EMQs. The
syllabus for this paper is not very well defined but the questions are set at the
level of a PRHO/FY1 doctor's knowledge.

Questions may be asked on any topic, including:

• Cardiology • Immunology / Allergies / Genetics
• Dermatology • Musculoskeletal
• ENT • Paediatrics
• Eyes • Pharmacology /Therapeutics
• Endocrinology • Psychiatry
• Metabolic • Neurology
• Gastroenterology • Reproductive (male & female)
• Nutrition • Nephrology
• Infectious diseases • Urology

• Haematology • Respiratory
Questions consist of an actual patient-based scenario in which you may be asked to give a
diagnosis based on the data given, indicate first line management, which investigations you
would consider doing, how you would prescribe or what factors could have caused a particular
condition or led to given symptoms. None of the questions are not negatively marked so you
do not lose points for providing a wrong answer. Consequently, you should make sure that you
answer every single one.
me is to complete the application form. The form consist mainly of employment-related
information where they are mostly concerned about the degrees that you obtained and your
career to date. (i.e. no assessment is made at this stage of any of your clinical or interpersonal
skills). The GPST form is merely a way to determine whether you satisfy the basic eligibility
criteria, i.e. that:
• You hold a recognised primary medical qualification.
• You are registered with the GMC or are eligible for registration (passed PLAB)
• You have the required level of competence i.e. you completed FY2 or completed
PRHO + 1st year SHO
• You own a valid driving licence or can demonstrate that you can fulfil the requirements
of the post (e.g. providing emergency care, home visits, etc)