GP VTS/GP ST: Composition of the GP VTS/GP ST

The GP ST Stage 2 written paper examination consists of 2 papers, the Clinical Problem Solving Paper and the Situational Judgement Test paper, which candidates must complete within 90 minutes each.

Paper 1: Clinical Problem Solving

The first examination paper, Clinical Problem Solving, comprises of approximately 100 clinical questions and/or scenarios covering a broad range of specialties to test your basic knowledge. The time allocated to complete this part of the examination is 90 minutes. Exam questions are formatted in the style of EMQs and MCQs with candidates encouraged to answer all questions as no negative marks are incurred for incorrect answers.

Example of MCQ:

A cardiac technician has done an echocardiogram and refers the patient to you with a report. Which one of the following measures is essential for the calculation of ejection fraction from echocardiography:-

  1. Ventricular wall thickness
  2. Aortic valve diameter
  3. Left ventricular end diastolic diameter
  4. Stroke volume
  5. Aortic valve velocity

Paper 2: Situational Judgement Test

The second examination paper, Situational Judgement Test, comprises of approximately 50 scenarios focusing on your interpersonal skills and how your interact with others in mainly non-clinical situations. The objective of this paper is to access your skills in relation to the person specification guidelines. Candidates have 90 minutes to complete all questions which are appear in two formats: ranking five options and selecting multiple choice actions.

Example of SJT:

You are a partner in a 5-member practice. The team work well, and the patients get a good service. However, a couple of the practice nurses say to you, in confidence, that they have noticed one of the partner often smells of alcoholic drink even early in the morning. Which of the following responses is appropriate:-

  1. Do nothing, the GP's practice is not affected and thus you should not interfere.
  2. Confront the partner involved yourself directly and ask him about what is going on.
  3. Arrange a practice meeting with all members of staff to discuss this issue in an open manner.
  4. Discuss the situation with the other partners.
  5. Report the partner to the GMC.