Free SCA practice timer

How the timer works

Choose a full circuit of 12 cases, a half circuit of 6 or a single case. Each case gives you 3 minutes’ reading time and a 12-minute consultation, with a one-minute warning and a 15-second changeover before the next case. Circuits of more than six cases can include a 10-minute break after case 6. Your settings stay in this browser.

How the SCA day runs

According to the RCGP’s examination day guide, the SCA has twelve stations. Each lasts 15 minutes: 3 minutes’ reading time, then a 12-minute video or telephone consultation. Rounds 1 to 6 take 1 hour 30 minutes. A 10-minute comfort break follows, then rounds 7 to 12. You get a one-minute warning before each consultation ends, then a five-second countdown, and there is a 15-second gap between stations. Check your own confirmation email for the arrangements on your day.

• RCGP: Simulated Consultation Assessment

Running a circuit with colleagues

A circuit works well with three people. One plays the doctor, one plays the patient from a prepared brief and one observes. Rotate the roles after each case, or after each half circuit if you want longer runs in one seat. Agree the cases before you start, so the patient has time to learn the brief and the doctor sees only the candidate information. Keep the observer’s notes short: one thing that worked and one thing to change.

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Making the most of reading time

Three minutes is enough to read the brief carefully and check it a second time. On the first read, note who the patient is, what has already happened and anything in the record that could change your thinking. On the second read, choose your opening question and the one or two things you must not miss. Avoid scripting the whole consultation: the patient may take it somewhere else.

• Plan your 12 minutes

After each case

Use the changeover to reset, not to review. Save feedback for the end of each half circuit, when everyone can talk through one case at a time. Write down one change to try in the next case rather than a long list. Over several sessions, look for patterns across cases, such as running short of time for the plan or for safety-netting, and build them into your study plan.

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Practising on your own?

Eligible free accounts get one five-minute standard Avatar taster. After email verification, sign in and choose any available case. It uses no credits, is not a full case, and ends automatically after five minutes. Independent educational resource. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the NHS or the RCGP.

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