👁 What Does “Supraclavicular Fossa” Mean? The term supraclavicular fossa literally means “the hollow above the clavicle.” It comes from Latin: supra (above) + clavicula (clavicle) + fossa (ditch or depression). In medicine, it refers to the small triangular hollow located between the clavicle and the base of the neck. Healthcare professionals frequently use this […]
Many International Medical Graduates (IMGs) studying for the OET tell me the same thing:“My Listening score is stuck. I’m not improving.” A common pattern is that learners work through a large number of past papers—often from YouTube—hoping that quantity alone will solve the problem. For exams like IELTS or TOEFL, doing a high number of […]
👁 What Does “Jugular Notch” Mean? The jugular notch refers to the visible and palpable dip at the top of the sternum, located between your left and right clavicles. The term comes from Latin, relating to the throat region, which makes sense given its location at the base of the neck. In medical settings, it […]
In this article, we break down a Respiratory role-play scenario commonly seen in OET Speaking: a 40-year-old long-term smoker presenting with fatigue, shortness of breath, wheezing, and frequent infections. The doctor must diagnose COPD, manage the patient’s distress, and strongly encourage smoking cessation. Case Overview Here is the role play card for the doctor. Setting […]
For IMGs who wish to work as doctors in the United Kingdom, the first essential step is obtaining GMC registration. GMC stands for The General Medical Council, the public body responsible for maintaining the UK’s official medical register and regulating medical practice. To gain GMC registration, IMGs generally choose one of two major pathways: the […]
In this article, we break down a Psychiatry role-play scenario commonly seen in OET Speaking: a middle-aged patient whose heavy daily drinking is interfering with work and family life, yet who initially denies having any problem. Case Overview Here is the role play card for the doctor. Setting General Practice Clinic Patient Profile A middle-aged […]
👁 What Does “Areola” Mean? The areola is the circular, pigmented area of skin that surrounds the nipple. The term comes from the Latin word areola, meaning “small open space” or “little area.” In medicine, it refers specifically to this distinct anatomical region, noted for its color, texture, and role in breastfeeding. Healthcare professionals use […]
In this article, we break down a Psychiatry role-play scenario commonly seen in OET Speaking: a 40-year-old patient presenting with four months of persistent low mood, loss of interest, sleep disturbance, and fatigue. Case Overview Here is the role play card for the doctor. Setting General Practice Clinic / Suburban clinic Patient Profile A 40-year-old […]
👁 What Does “Nipple” Mean? The nipple is the small raised structure on the surface of the breast where milk ducts open. The word comes from modern English, though its roots trace back to older Germanic forms referring to a “small projection.” In medicine, the term is used in anatomy, breastfeeding assessments, endocrine evaluations, and […]
To work as a doctor in the United Kingdom, you must register with the General Medical Council (GMC), the public body responsible for maintaining the official register of medical practitioners. For IMGs, meeting the English language requirement is a key step in the GMC registration process.This article explains those requirements in a clear, IMG-focused way. […]