The RCPE had a good podcast covering how the PACES exam will be adapted to reflect the ongoing COVID-19 situation.
The conversation primarily covered exams taken in the UK.
Here were a few of the key points…
Where exams will take place:
- Examination stations will be grouped together.
- Communication and history-taking sessions held at a separate location (on same day).
- Local centres may choose to present stations in a different order.
As many people will be as socially distanced as possible.
Examinations may be done virtually.
Physical examinations will be done with PPE (personal protective equipment, typically surgical face mask, apron, gloves, possibly eye protection or face shields, depending on local decision).
Patients may have masks on for certain parts of examinations.
Note that these plans are under constant review as the COVID situation evolves and, in other countries, depending on the local COVID-19 situation at that time, the exam may be run as normal.