The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP): A Guide to the CAAKT Examination

Introduction to the RACGP

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) stands as Australia’s premier institution dedicated to the field of general practice. Established in 1958, the RACGP has played a pivotal role in advancing general practice through rigorous education and training. Over the decades, the College has supported over 23,000 general practitioners (GPs) in achieving Fellowship, setting the standard for excellence in primary care.

Overview of the Candidate Assessment and Applied Knowledge Test (CAAKT)

The RACGP’s Candidate Assessment and Applied Knowledge Test (CAAKT) is a crucial component of the Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) Program. This examination is designed to evaluate the competencies and readiness of medical graduates who aspire to enter the field of general practice. The AGPT Program itself is the foremost pathway for those looking to specialize in general practice within Australia.

Structure and Content of the CAAKT

The CAAKT is divided into two distinct sections:

1. Knowledge Test Questions: These assess a candidate’s understanding of core medical knowledge relevant to general practice. The questions are designed to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
2. Situational Judgement Test (SJT) Questions: These questions assess a candidate’s ability to handle real-world scenarios and make sound decisions in complex situations. This part of the test evaluates judgment, problem-solving skills, and the ability to navigate challenging clinical situations.

Scheduling and Location

Candidates are encouraged to book their CAAKT as early as possible to secure their preferred testing location. The test is available across various states and territories in Australia, subject to availability. Candidates must manage their own travel arrangements and associated costs.

Eligibility and Application Process

To be eligible to sit the CAAKT, candidates must first apply for the AGPT Program through the RACGP. Only those deemed eligible for the AGPT Program will be permitted to undertake the CAAKT. This ensures that all candidates have met the initial criteria required to advance to this stage of assessment.

Preparing for the CAAKT

Preparation is key to success in the CAAKT. Candidates should focus on:

• Studying Core Medical Knowledge: Review relevant textbooks and clinical guidelines to solidify your understanding of general practice principles.
• Practicing Situational Judgement: Engage in practice scenarios and case studies to enhance your decision-making skills and response strategies.
• Familiarizing Yourself with the Test Format: Understand the structure and types of questions you will encounter by reviewing sample questions and past test materials if available.

Conclusion

The RACGP’s CAAKT is a significant step for those pursuing a career in general practice in Australia. By thoroughly preparing for this examination, candidates can demonstrate their readiness for the challenges of general practice and advance towards becoming a Fellow of the RACGP.