Candidate perspectives on the MICGP exit examination

How do candidates feel about a clinical competency test (CCT) as an exiting exam to qualify as a GP? The MICGP CCT was introduced in Ireland in 2015 as part of a triangulated assessment, and is structurally similar to the CSA of the MRCGP in the UK. A mixed-methods study from Foley and colleagues found that registrars felt it had a positive educational impact, and that it was fair and relevant. But they found it costly both in financial and, importantly, psychological terms, with stress around time management being highlighted.

Novel oral anticoagulants across Europe

Atrial fibrillation affects approximately 3% of adults and the new non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs) offer another weapon in the battle to prevent stroke. A survey of primary care physicians across Europe found that the vast majority were responsible for the initiation of NOAC therapy, and felt confident to do so. Some countries, such as Italy and Slovakia, still restrict NOACs and they are not available to primary care physicians. A significant proportion of physicians, one in five, was not following any guideline at all but most felt further training was not needed.

Social prescribing: what do patients think?

Social prescribing is gathering interest as an option to help primary care services improve health and wellbeing of patients. Problems such as debt, social isolation, domestic abuse, and grief need remedies that go beyond medication. Yet little is known about how patients feel about social prescribing programmes. Pescheny and colleagues explored the experiences and views of service users. Referral from a trusted GP helped with uptake and it was beneficial when navigators initiated contact with patients.