OSCE Talk

In this episode of OSCE Talk , Matthew and Peter explore how to take a clear and structured musculoskeletal (MSK) history — one of the most versatile and important skills in clinical exams and everyday practice. We cover how to assess joint pain , identify patterns and red flags , and distinguish between mechanical and inflammatory causes such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis . The discu...

In this episode of OSCE Talk , Matthew and Peter explore anaemia — one of the most common presentations in clinical medicine and a frequent OSCE topic. You’ll learn how to take a focused anaemia history , recognise key symptoms and red flags , and confidently approach diagnosis and management in both exams and real-life settings. We cover the main types of anaemia — microcytic, normocytic, and mac...

🎙️ Episode 6 – Asthma History Taking & Management | OSCE Talk In this episode of OSCE Talk , Matthew and Peter take a deep dive into asthma — one of the most common and high-yield respiratory conditions in both OSCEs and clinical practice. We discuss how to take a clear, structured asthma history, identify common triggers, and assess control. You’ll also learn how to explain inhaler use effect...

In this episode of OSCE Talk , Matthew and Peter focus on how to take a structured respiratory history — and how to recognise red flags that could indicate serious underlying disease. We guide you through the OPERA framework , highlight key symptoms to explore (including cough, hemoptysis, and weight loss), and discuss how to sensitively approach difficult topics such as smoking history or suspect...

In this episode of OSCE Talk , Matthew and Peter discuss heart failure — a core topic in cardiology and a common OSCE presentation. They explore the key differences between left- and right-sided heart failure , how to recognise acute versus chronic cases, and what to ask during a focused patient history . You’ll also learn about diagnostic tests such as BNP and echocardiography , plus the four pil...

In this episode of OSCE Talk , Matthew and Peter walk through a full example of how to take a chest pain history — putting into practice the frameworks and skills discussed in earlier episodes. We show how to structure questions, explore symptoms, and think through different causes while keeping communication clear and patient-centred. This episode is designed to help you visualise what an organis...

In this episode of OSCE Talk , Matthew and Peter dive into one of the most important skills in medicine — taking a great patient history . We explore how to make strong first impressions, communicate effectively, and structure your consultations using proven frameworks like SOCRATES, OPERA and ICE . From open-ended questioning to summarising and showing empathy, this episode is packed with practic...

In the very first episode of OSCE Talk , Matthew and Peter — two newly qualified doctors from Queen’s University Belfast — share why they created this podcast and how it can help you ace your OSCEs . We break down what makes OSCEs so challenging, how to prepare effectively, and why practicing with structure and feedback is the secret to success. From understanding mark schemes to building real con...