UPSC CMS Syllabus: A Comprehensive Guide

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Combined Medical Services (CMS) Examination is a gateway for medical professionals to join esteemed government roles in India. Preparing for this competitive exam requires a clear understanding of its syllabus, as it forms the foundation for effective study strategies. In this article, we delve into the UPSC CMS syllabus, offering a detailed breakdown to help candidates plan their preparation.


Structure of the UPSC CMS Syllabus

The UPSC CMS exam comprises two papers, each carrying 250 marks:

  1. Paper 1: Covers General Medicine and Pediatrics.
  2. Paper 2: Includes Surgery, Gynecology & Obstetrics, and Preventive & Social Medicine.

Both papers consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and are conducted in an online format.


Paper 1: General Medicine and Pediatrics

General Medicine (60% of Paper 1)
This section emphasizes fundamental concepts in medicine, including:

  • Cardiology: Management of hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure.
  • Neurology: Stroke, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative conditions.
  • Respiratory System: Asthma, COPD, and pneumonia.
  • Gastroenterology: Liver diseases, acid-peptic disorders, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • Infectious Diseases: Viral infections, parasitic diseases, and public health concerns like tuberculosis.
  • Emergency Care: Basics of shock management, fluid therapy, and first aid.

Pediatrics (40% of Paper 1)
This segment focuses on child health and development, including:

  • Growth milestones and developmental disorders.
  • Neonatal health and common conditions like jaundice and respiratory distress.
  • Vaccination schedules as per the Universal Immunization Program.
  • Management of pediatric illnesses such as malnutrition and acute diarrhea.

Paper 2: Surgery, Gynecology & Obstetrics, and Preventive & Social Medicine

Surgery (40% of Paper 2)
This section tests knowledge of surgical principles and specific conditions, such as:

  • Wound Healing and Management: Infection prevention and post-operative care.
  • Trauma Care: Fractures, burn management, and soft tissue injuries.
  • Abdominal Surgeries: Appendicitis, cholecystitis, and hernias.

Gynecology & Obstetrics (40% of Paper 2)
This part assesses expertise in maternal and reproductive health, including:

  • Obstetrics: Antenatal care, complications during delivery, and neonatal resuscitation.
  • Gynecology: Menstrual irregularities, uterine fibroids, and infertility management.
  • Family Planning: Contraceptive methods and population health programs.

Preventive & Social Medicine (20% of Paper 2)
This segment emphasizes public health and community medicine, covering:

  • Epidemiology and disease prevention strategies.
  • Health programs addressing malaria, dengue, and tuberculosis.
  • Environmental and occupational health issues.

Tips to Master the UPSC CMS Syllabus

  1. Prioritize High-Scoring Areas: General Medicine and Surgery carry significant weightage, so start with these sections.
  2. Use Reliable Resources: Standard textbooks like Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine and Park’s Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine are highly recommended.
  3. Regular Practice: Attempt mock tests and previous years’ papers to strengthen problem-solving skills.
  4. Systematic Revision: Schedule periodic reviews of important topics to retain key information.
  5. Focus on Practical Applications: Many questions relate to real-world scenarios, so understanding clinical practices is vital.

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