Dyslexic student to launch discrimination claim against General Medical Council over multiple choice exams

A dyslexic medical student will take legal action to stop multiple choice exams being used as part of doctors' training.

Naomi Gadian, 21, will challenge the General Medical Council (GMC) over using the testing method, claiming it discriminates against people with dyslexia.

Gadian claims that, as a body which sets the standards for undergraduate medical education, the GMC is discriminating against her on the grounds of disability. Dyslexia is considered a learning disability, but is not classified as an intellectual disability.

"In normal day life, you don't get given multiple choice questions to sit," Gadian said. "Your patients aren't going to ask you: 'Here's an option and four answers. Which one is right?'"

Her solicitor believes that if the employment tribunal case is successful, and medical schools have to drop the exams, other trade bodies may have to review their approach to disabilities.

"Every professional body or employer that relies for a professional qualification, or as a promotional gateway, on multiple choice questions, is heading for a fall," said John MacKenzie.

Gadian, who got an A and two Bs in her A-level exams, has been studying at the Peninsula Medical School for two years.

The GMC said it cannot comment on this case, but said it does not have the power to decide what adjustments should be made for students with disabilities.