In this article we are going to run through a series of proven methods that have been used to pass the USMLE Step 2 CS exam. First off, there’s the question of how long to study for the exam. There are varying opinions on this matter but, ultimately, it boils down to the individual and his or her abilities. The main thing you will want to do is to give yourself enough time to prepare based on what is comfortable for you. Remember that the exam is scored based on how well you do in your encounter with the patient, so it’s not all about absorbing information. Although, on average, most people studying for the exam should be comfortable with about 4-6 weeks of preparation time. The three areas you will be graded on are as follows: Integrated Clinical Encounter (ICE) ”“ This element includes gathering data and information from the simulated patient and writing a patient note with a differential diagnosis after the exam. Your abilities gathering the information are then graded by the SP while the patient notes are graded by a practicing physician. Communication and Interpersonal Skills (CIS) ”“ This is about how well you relate to and interact with the patient. Professionalism, making eye contact, and building a rapport with the patient are some of the things you will be graded on. Spoken English Proficiency (SEP) ”“ This includes the clarity of spoken English communication. Pronunciation, choice of words, and limiting the need to ask questions or make statements repeatedly. Recommended resources: CSE Video Including 48 video cases that present a complete view on what you may experience in the actual exam. The videos cover cases that can be found in the First Aid and Kaplan Complex so it’s easy to use the books to follow along. Each video is 15 minutes long and covers history, review of symptoms, past medical history, social history, transition statements, empathy (CIS), challenging questions and more. The videos contain no interruptions or narrations so you can completely focus on the encounter. Audio notes assist you with introduction, empathy, closure, and counselling (CIS). This is also a great tool for Spoken English Proficiency. There’s also an assessment exam which includes 12 mystery cases that allow you to practice your ability to master data gathering (ICE) and the timed patient note. A timed interactive page simulates the actual exam to help you increase your skills. Mnemonics found no where else will also help you quickly and efficiently write your patient notes. Books First Aid for the USMLE Step 2 CS Kaplan Medical USMLE Step 2 CS: Complex Cases The books mentioned above will give you all of the high yield information for the exam. You will want to read through them multiple times as you prepare yourself for the exam. Once you familiarize yourself with the cases and watch the videos, you will begin to better understand how the exam will be conducted. Practice going over 4-5 cases in succession to get used to how the actual exam will be conducted. This will be useful in the long run because during the actual exam, your cases will be broken up in blocks separated by breaks so since this is an eight hour exam. (Optional: First Aid for the International Medical Graduate) Find a partner. Ask a friend or fellow student to act as a live SP. This will help you get some feedback on how well you’re doing in the three areas mentioned above. It will also help your timing. If you aren’t in a position to find a live SP, there are several resources available on the internet to help you find SP’s that you can practice with through Skype, for example. Things to consider. As you prepare for your exam be sure to pay attention to your strengths and weaknesses. Adjust your schedule and preparation accordingly. There are no hard and fast rules to what makes up the perfect study plan and only you can determine the best schedule as you prepare. These are just a few tips to help you in your path to success. The resources mentioned above have been used successfully by top scoring medical students. We wish you luck. Please Feel free to contact us anytime at: [email protected] Business mailing address: 2517 Rt44 #11 Salt Point, NY 12578 Or call us Monday- Friday 9am-4pm EST (845)240-7931 For technical support contact Blake Cohen at [email protected] or visit our FAQ page. www.csevideo.com
