ACRRM StAMPS: How to Master the Structured Viva

Introduction

The Structured Assessment using Multiple Patient Scenarios (StAMPS) exam is unique to ACRRM. It is designed to test the decision-making of doctors aiming to practise in rural and remote communities.

Exam Format

• 10-minute viva station.
• 7 minutes reading time before each station.
• Case-based discussions with examiners, focusing on safety, escalation, and rural context.

“StAMPS tests your ability to make high-stakes decisions without backup — exactly what rural GPs face,” says A/Prof George Eskander.

Key Challenges

• No actors — you must verbalise both history and management.
• Rural scenarios with limited resources.
• Examiners assess both reasoning and adaptability.

How to Prepare

• Practise thinking aloud during viva cases.
• Simulate rural limitations (e.g., no CT, limited specialists).
• Focus on escalation pathways and safety-netting.
• Structure is king - your answers must be meticulously structured.

Final Thoughts

StAMPS is demanding but fair. Candidates who practise structured reasoning and rural triage scenarios are well-placed to succeed.

Reference: ACRRM Exam Candidate Handbook, 2025.