The validity of the selection methods for recruitment to UK core psychiatry training: cohort study

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 durin...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Paul A. Tiffin, Emma Morley, Lewis W. Paton, Nandini Chakraborty, Fiona Patterson
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Cambridge University Press 2025-02-01
Series:BJPsych Bulletin
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.cambridge.org/core/product/identifier/S2056469424000093/type/journal_article
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary: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.
ISSN:2056-4694
2056-4708