‘It’s colloquially termed the “1000-hour exam” and I would say that’s a reasonably fair assessment’.

A massive congratulations to Jayson Leow and Darcy McFarland, who both received Merit Awards on their ANZCA exams.

It takes about 1000 hours to prepare for ANZCA exams, which are important milestones to becoming an Anaesthetic Consultant. Merits are awarded at the discretion of the examiners and usually go to the top one to three candidates. Considering 200 or more candidates sit the exams at any one time you can see why we’re is so proud of Jayson and Darcy!

Although Merits are awarded individually, the ever-humble anaesthetists are keen to point out that they couldn’t have done it alone.

‘This certainly wouldn’t have been possible without the immense help from the Anaesthetic Department and the other trainees who have been abundantly generous with their time, resources and guidance,’ said Jayson.

Darcy continues, ‘the consultant group in the department put a huge amount of effort into helping me prepare for the exam and should be commended. We have an excellent pass rate for the final exam, both due to the case mix we see at Canberra Hospital and the efforts of the consultants for teaching and preparing for the exam.’

The broad and dynamic nature of anaesthetics was what drew Jayson and Darcy to the discipline.

‘A big reason I was drawn to anaesthesia was the complex and dynamic interplay between real-time physiology and pharmacology, while also featuring a strong procedural aspect,’ explains Jayson.

Darcy likes the ‘immediacy of the speciality – the rapid changes in patient physiology that necessitates rapid assessment and management. As well as the opportunity to look after a wide range of patients - the very old, the very young, the pregnant and the very unwell.’

Having whip smart anaesthetists as part of Team CHS is one thing, but Jayson and Darcy are also both passionate about helping people.

‘I think growing up I always wanted to work in a role that I found meaningful, with the ability to make a positive difference in people’s lives,’ says Jayson. 'It's extremely rewarding to be able to guide and support a patient safely through their journey.’

‘Most patients are very anxious and scared before surgery and the interaction you have and the care you provide can certainly change their perception of their surgical journey,’ adds Darcy.

Every day, hundreds of CHS team members  are preparing for exams or starting new training to further their health care journey. We asked Jayson and Darcy for their tips in preparing for challenging medical exams.

Jayson:

• “It’s a marathon, not a sprint” was a piece of advice I was told early on - and I would definitely agree. Keep a consistent approach and you’ll get there!
• ‘You don’t have to do it alone - studying with colleagues is a great way to keep accountable and make sure you’re on the right track.
• Don’t forgo your hobbies - I found them really important to keep myself sane and grounded.

Darcy:

• Give yourself enough time and plan well.
• Use a study group to keep yourself accountable.
• You want to make sure your first attempt is the best attempt it can be – you don’t want to prolong the pain any longer than it needs to be.

Congratulations again Jayson and Darcy. We can’t wait to see where the next step in your medical journey takes you!

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