Tiffin PA, Morley E, Paton LW, Chakraborty N, Patterson F. The validity of the selection methods for recruitment to UK core psychiatry training: cohort study.
BJPsych Bull 2024;
49:1-10. [PMID:
38531805 PMCID:
PMC11810473 DOI:
10.1192/bjb.2024.9]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS AND METHOD
Selection into core psychiatry training in the UK uses a computer-delivered Multi-Specialty Recruitment Assessment (MSRA; a situational judgement and clinical problem-solving test) and, previously, a face-to-face Selection Centre. The Selection Centre assessments were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to evaluate the validity of this selection process using data on 3510 psychiatry applicants. We modelled the ability of the selection scores to predict subsequent performance in the Clinical Assessment of Skills and Competencies (CASC). Sensitivity to demographic characteristics was also estimated.
RESULTS
All selection assessment scores demonstrated positive, statistically significant, independent relationships with CASC performance and were sensitive to demographic factors.
IMPLICATIONS
All selection components showed independent predictive validity. Re-instituting the Selection Centre assessments could be considered, although the costs, potential advantages and disadvantages should be weighed carefully.
Collapse