References – and why they matter

When examiners are designing a question, references matter. A LOT. For many reasons some obvious, but some which you might not have thought of:

• To ensure that the questions set are testing pure evidence-based medicine.
• To ensure that the latest guidelines are reflected in each exam.
• As an objective blueprint for the exams.
• To ensure that writers/their organisations are not accused of a breach of copyright or intellectual property.
• To ensure that the respective college can defend itself against a candidate who may wish to pursue an allegation of unfair process in denying them fellowship.

Why is this relevant?

References are power. Every question must have a reference source. This means that if you know the reference sources and what they say, then you are a long way towards your goal.

But there are so many references – where do you even start?

Well, here is a handy list! In our humble opinon, the single most important source by a country mile is the Therapeutic Guidelines. They are Australian-based and represent an amalgamation of multiple sources. We strongly suggest that you get a login ASAP and focus on this as an absolute priority.

Other handy references include:

AJGP/AFP

MJA

BMJ Best Practice

Diagnostic Imaging Pathways

Austroads Fitness to Drive

Royal Women’s Hospital, Royal Children’s Hospital and Perth Children’s Hospital

Australian STI Management Guidelines

DermNet NZ

Medical Board of Australia Code of Conduct

At PassGP, every question comes with a reference and PassGP Examiner Hints and Tips, ensuring that you get a flavour of how references are used and where to look.