Dishonesty in the MRCP(UK) Part 1 and Part 2 written examinations: prevention, detection and possible remediation

Abstract

Why do people cheat in examinations and why is it wrong? The relationship between the medical profession and society, and between individual doctors and patients, is based on trust. Behaviour that compromises that relationship damages not only the standing of the medical profession but potentially harms individual patients. The General Medical Council (GMC) explicitly underlines the centrality of trust in its publication Good medical practice. 1 In the area on ‘probity’ there is a subsection dealing with ‘Being honest and trustworthy’ which states: 56. Probity means being honest and trustworthy, and acting with integrity: this is at the heart of medical professionalism. 57. You must make sure that your conduct at all times justifies your patients’ trust in you and the public's trust in the profession. And also: 64. You must always be honest about your experience, qualifications and position, particularly when applying for posts.