PMDC to conduct clinical skills exam this month

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) will conduct the National Registration Examination (NRE) Step 2 Clinical Skills Examination (CSE) on July 20-21 and July 27-28, according to an announcement on Sunday.

This exam assesses the clinical skills and competencies of medical graduates, ensuring they meet the required standards for practice. Prof Dr Rizwan Taj, the president of the PMDC, said that the exam was important for foreign graduates with Pakistani nationality to register themselves with the PMDC.

The NRE Step 2 CSE involved practical assessments, including patient interactions, clinical procedures, and decision-making processes. It was akin to an objectively structured clinical examination (OSCE), requiring candidates to pass both the theory and CSE components separately, said a press release.

“The NRE Step 2 exam ensures that only competent professionals enter the medical and dental fields, maintaining high standards of medical education and practice in Pakistan,” the press release issued by the PMDC stated.

“The transparent and fair design of the exam reduces biases and ensures equal opportunities for all candidates. It encourages continuous learning and professional development, promoting excellence in healthcare services,” it added.

Spanned over three-and-a-half hours, the CSE consisted of 20 stations across various disciplines. A 60% pass rate is required for both the theory and CSE components. “The rigorous assessment process upholds public trust in the medical professions and maintains the quality of healthcare services.”