What is MRCPCH?
MRCPCH is a postgraduate qualification offered by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) to medical practitioners who meet specific criteria. It confers membership of RCPCH. The letters “MRCPCH” are not used in direct correspondence with other paediatricians, as they can appear confusing: for example, MRCGP stands for “Member of the Royal College of General Practitioners”. Instead, we use our full name or initials.
Why should I take it?
If you wish to take the MRCPCH exam, your employer should be able to advise the requirements. For example, you may be expected to demonstrate that you have a sound knowledge of clinical practice and education in paediatrics before taking the examination. We would not recommend taking it until at least 2 years into your training.
The competencies required for this examination are outlined on the official website of the RCPCH. The MRCPCH is an opportunity to assess whether or not you have attained these competencies. It also provides evidence of your membership with RCPCH which is often much valued by employers and peers when making promotions within academic institutions, National Health Service trusts, or private hospitals.
Is it similar to the Membership of the Royal College of General Practitioners?
Yes but no! It’s not just about child health – we expect candidates to be able to support all types of children across the age range. MRCGP is a ‘family practice’ exam. It’s also run by the Royal College of General Practitioners; this is not always made clear to candidates, who often think that it needs to be taken alongside the RCPCH exam.
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How long do I have to wait for the results?
Results are announced on test day and there is usually an open forum at which feedback from previous sessions can be reviewed. Information about your performance and any mistakes you might have made will then be given specifically to you during the feedback session – don’t leave until you hear it! Results are available online shortly after this event has taken place and should appear in 2–3 weeks. You will need to wait over 6 months for a certificate.
What does the MRCPCH exam involve?
In order to become a qualified pediatrician, one must pass the MRCPCH examinations which consist of 3 theory exams and 1 clinical exam. The FOP covers basic knowledge in child health while TAS is focused on scientific principles that are applied to real life scenarios as well as decision making skills. AKP focuses on synthesizing various disciplines into practical applications for daily work with children and finally the multi-station OSCE has stations testing core competencies in pediatrics such as general management, assessment modes (e.g., interviewing), communication techniques etc.”
Eligibility
Be the UK or European Community National; Hold a primary medical qualification (MBBS, MBChB, BDS) granted in the United Kingdom and have completed two years of postgraduate pediatric training. [The 2 years includes any period of time spent doing assessments during your postgraduate training] (NB: if you have relevant overseas qualifications, see the RCPCH website).