The MLA content map sets out the areas that could be tested in the MLA. The content map concentrates on the professional skills, knowledge and behaviours that are essential for safe practice and is based on existing guidance, including Achieving good medical practice, Outcomes for graduates and the Generic professional capabilities framework. These areas could be tested in the applied knowledge test or the clinical and professional skills assessment.
The content map has six sections, called domains:
- Areas of clinical practice, such as mental health and surgery.
- Areas of professional knowledge, such as biomedical sciences and medical ethics and law.
- Clinical and professional capabilities, such as assessing and managing risk and safeguarding vulnerable patients.
- Practical skills and procedures, as set out in the list of practical skills and procedures that supplements Outcomes for graduates (2018).
- Patient presentations, which relates to signs, symptoms, investigation results and other relevant patient-related issues typically seen by doctors in a first appointment within the UK Foundation Programme. For example, a chronic rash or breast lump.
- Conditions, which are pathophysiological diseases or clinical diagnoses typically seen by doctors in a first appointment within the UK Foundation Programme. For example, asthma and eating disorders.
The MLA content map will be kept up to date to make sure it reflects real life day-to-day medical practice.