CPST (Clinical Problem-Solving Test)

The purpose of the CPST is to ensure that the public is protected from practitioners not clinically competent to occupy training posts, whilst ensuring that the bar is not so high that it excludes those who do have the necessary knowledge and skills from being able to commence training. The standard of achievement expected will be that of a current intern.

This test assesses your ability to use your medical knowledge to solve real-world clinical problems. The scenarios in the test are based on the types of problems that you would encounter as a junior doctor. The test does not just test your ability to remember facts; it also tests your ability to think critically and apply your knowledge to make decisions.

Here are some specific things that the CPST assesses:

• Your ability to gather and interpret clinical information
• Your ability to generate differential diagnoses (a list of possible causes of a patient’s symptoms)
• Your ability to develop a management plan for a patient

The CPST is an important part of the GP Recruitment Exam, which is used to select candidates for GP training. If you are planning to apply for specialty training, I recommend that you familiarize yourself with the format of the CPST and practice answering sample questions.