This collaboration has alot of Positive aspects also

USMLE
#1

Keeping in view current situation regarding ICO collaboration with RCSEd. One aspect of this collaboration is that the candidates are not eligible for GMC registration after getting MRCSEd via ICO route because they have not given any UK VIVA/OSCE exam.

This collaboration has alot of Positive aspects also.

  1. ICO exams (All parts) can be taken in home country.
  2. There is no criteria regarding any ophthalmology experience, training Job or other requisites to take ICO exams. For FRCS(Glassgow) one can appear in part 2 only after 5 years training is complete.
  3. ICO exams can be given in parts. Like basic ophthalmology and Optics can be given in two seprate parts. While FRCS glassGow part A sllybus contain both basic ophthalmology and optics in one exam.
  4. All parts can be given during residency and just after completing residency (4 years) a candidate can appear in VIVA exam of RCSEd and can get FRCSEd.
  5. There is no major General Medicine portion for ICO exams. One can pass with Ophthalmology knowledge.
  6. ICO exams are held twice per year and application, exam booking is easily available no long waiting time.

For those who wish to get GMC still this route is short as compared to FRCS glassgow ( in terms of time).
FRCS glassgow suits only Counsultant Ophthalmologists who already have experience in ophthalmology and they need to pass their exit exam.