A guide to GMC PLAB

GMC Plab is an important exam that you have to pass if you want to practice as a medical practitioner in UK.  It is important to register yourself with GMC or General Medical Council if you work in the United Kingdom.

Plab is the abbreviated form of Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board Test. This test is conducted by GMC or General Medical Council. Since this test is rather difficult as compared with other competitive exams, most of the students undertake the plab training course. This course is divided into different parts like plab 1 course and plab 2 course. You can opt for these effective training sessions if you want to pass this exam with flying colours.

GMC Plab is the main test with the aid of which, IMGs or International Medical Graduates demonstrate that they have the necessary skill as well as knowledge needed to practice medicine in UK. You have to pass GMC Plab for practicing medicine in UK if you fulfil the following criterions:

• You belong to a country outside UK or have graduated from a medical college that is not in UK.
• You are a national of United Kingdom but graduated from medical college outside UK, Switzerland or European Economic Area (EEA).
• Is not a holder of approved postgraduate qualification
• Not a specialist or trained GP.

It is important to be aware of some points before you apply for GMC Plab:

• Before you start preparing for GMC Plab, make sure that the country has opportunities to bestow on you, the type of job you are on the lookout of! Remember that the job market in UK is very competitive and it is important to ensure yourself of the fact that you have the capabilities to compete in this competitive market. The test is set on a level that you are expected to achieve by the first year of practicing after graduation. This is also referred to as House Officer Year or internship. It is important to remember that jobs are not guaranteed if you pass GMC plab.
• GMC will not provide you any information on job vacancies.
• It is essential to be aware of the fact that UK, especially South East England and London is a very expensive place to stay. These areas witness strong competition for jobs in different fields. You also need to find out if the lifestyle of UK is suitable for you.

The framework for practicing medicine in UK is rather complicated. There is no single organisation that has the overall responsibility of regulation, care and employment of doctors. GMC is just a regulatory body who set the standards for practicing medicine in UK. Passing GMC Plab just means that you have reached the minimum standard that is required to practice medicine safely in UK. Make sure if you are willing to take the risks that is involved in the job market of UK.