Why the BPS Examination is important
The Basic Pathological Sciences (BPS) examination is designed to ensure that all doctors undertaking the RCPA training program can demonstrate at an early stage of training that they have adequate foundation knowledge to equip them for specific training in their chosen discipline. It is recognised that there is some variation between medical schools in the teaching of basic sciences including pathology. The examination is set at a level that the College would recommend as appropriate for a student graduating from a medical school where basic pathology has been well addressed. This examination is not an entry requirement for the RCPA training program, but final year medical students and prevocational doctors may attempt the examination prior to registering with the College. This helps with preparation for training and enables the Trainee to proceed more rapidly with specific disciplinary training. It also provides an opportunity to demonstrate commitment to a career in pathology.
BPS Examination Resources
The BPS curriculum is outlined in the RCPA Trainee Handbook – All Disciplines. Suitable resources include, but are not limited to:
- Texts on normal cell biology
- The first 10 chapters of Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 8th edition. Note that there may be references within chapters 1-10 to relevant material in later chapters of the book.
- Reliable pathophysiology texts covering acid-base balance and fluids and electrolytes and disturbances of these.
- RCPA materials on concepts relevant to testing, such as sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value
- Texts covering basic concepts of research design.
Resources are available through the RCPA Education portal (http://education.rcpa.edu.au). DVDs are also available from reception reception@rcpa.edu.au after registering for the BPS examination.
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