Starting this weekend, Structured Objective Clinical Examination (ECOE) will begin to take place in various medical schools. This practical test, designed for future healthcare professionals in their sixth year of study, evaluates medical skills and competencies through simulated clinical practice situations. Considered as the “driving test” of Medicine, the exam not only assesses clinical skills but also tests the students’ interpersonal and communication abilities.
Anthony Trilla, dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Barcelona, explained the structure of the exam, to be held on May 4 and 5 at the Clínic and on May 11 and 12 at the Bellvitge University Hospital. Approximately 240 students will face the exam, which consists of practical applications of basic knowledge and skills, with trained actors portraying patients in various scenarios.
Preparation for the ECOE goes beyond the classroom, as students like Carla Gómez Beiroa from the University of Santiago de Compostela dedicate time to reviewing basic concepts and practicing medical history taking and physical examinations. Despite feeling nervous, students like Pedro Areal Antolín express confidence in their abilities, although concerns about specific specialty stations remain.
While some students see potential benefits in extending this type of exam to earlier courses, logistical challenges may pose obstacles. However, many students view the OSCE as a valuable opportunity to gain confidence and practical experience before entering the workforce.
The State Council of Medical Students (CEEM) supports the implementation of the ECOE as a standardized evaluation method, emphasizing the importance of assessing humanistic attributes such as empathy and communication skills. The CEEM advocates for mandatory and uniform administration of the exam across all medical faculties in the sixth year, with the potential for smaller versions throughout the curriculum.
As students gear up for the ECOE, it stands as a pivotal moment in their journey towards becoming competent and compassionate healthcare professionals.