Attitudes toward free speech, content moderation, and punishment of misinformation spreaders during infectious disease outbreaks.

The examination of the Fellowship of the College of Diagnostic Radiologists South Africa (FC Rad Diag [SA]), conducted by the College of Radiologists (CR) of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA), is the single exit examination required to qualify as a radiology specialist across South Africa. A Master of Medicine (MMed), which is the research component, is also a prerequisite for registering as a specialist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). The CMSA has been tasked to conduct a national examination that is independent, fair and efficient. The FC Rad Diag (SA) examination is closely modelled on the Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR) in London with the aim to remain on par with international standards. The FC Rad Diag (SA) examination currently consists of two components: Part 1 (radiation physics a 3 h written paper and imaging anatomy, two or three spot tests with no oral component); and Part 2 (3 written papers, a rapid reporting session and long cases). Unlimited attempts are allowed for Part 2, but this must be achieved within 8 years of obtaining Part 1 or the candidate will be required to repeat the Part 1 examination. The CMSA entry requirements to the Part 2 examinations include completion of 36 months of training as a radiology registrar in an HPCSA-recognised post, passed or exempt from the Part 1 examination and completion of a performance portfolio or logbook with a satisfactory continuous assessment signed by the head of department. The preparedness for any examination by a candidate is multifactorial. This places the spotlight on what factors influence candidate performance and ultimately, success. Failure rates in training programmes for specialist examinations are high across different specialist medical colleges. This has prompted research that has identified a range of potential reasons for failure, including trainee personal factors and examination preparation factors. Trainee personal factors include age, ethnicity, undergraduate degree training institution, and possession of a postgraduate degree. Examination preparation factors include the development of a structured study plan, the presence of support structures, and understanding the examination format.