Crit-IQ vs iatroX (2026): Niche FFICM Q-Bank vs AI-Integrated Diploma Platform
At a Glance
Who is it for?
iatroX:ICM trainees wanting comprehensive, adaptive FFICM prep with AI support and access to other exams.
Crit-IQ:ICM trainees wanting a focused, dedicated FFICM-only Q-bank.
Why choose iatroX?
- **More than 720 FFICM questions** — nearly 5x the volume of Crit-IQ
- **£99/year unlocks all 6 specialist diploma banks** (FFICM + DipIMC + DTM&H + DFSRH + DRCOG + DGM)
- **Integrated Learning Loop:** Quiz → Ask iatroX → Brainstorm → CPD
- AI-powered adaptive learning and spaced repetition
- Also includes free access to MRCP, AKT, MSRA, PLAB, UKMLA, MRCEM, PANE, PSA
Why choose Crit-IQ?
- **Dedicated ICM focus** — content written specifically for the FFICM exam
- Established niche brand among ICM trainees
- Questions tailored to ICM-specific clinical scenarios
Feature Comparison
| Capability | iatroX | Crit-IQ |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £29/month or £99/year (includes all 6 specialist diploma banks + free major exams) | Paid subscription (check crit-iq.com for current pricing) |
| Question Count | More than 720 FFICM questions (growing) | ~150 MCQs |
| Exam Coverage | FFICM + 5 other specialist diplomas + 8 free major exams | FFICM only |
| Question Design | Blueprint-mapped, cognitive science design (spaced repetition, retrieval practice, interleaving) | FFICM exam-style MCQs |
| A I Integration | **Yes** — guideline Q&A, adaptive quiz, case simulation | No — traditional static Q-bank |
In-Depth Analysis
Overview
The FFICM (Fellowship of the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine) is a mandatory exam for ICM CCT, sat by approximately 400 candidates per year. Despite its importance, preparation resources are remarkably scarce.
Crit-IQ is a niche Q-bank offering approximately 150 FFICM MCQs — one of the few dedicated digital resources available.
iatroX now offers more than 720 FFICM questions as part of its specialist diploma subscription, representing the largest dedicated FFICM digital question bank available.
When To Use Each
- Use Crit-IQ when: You want a focused, ICM-only product and prefer a small, curated bank written specifically for the FFICM.
- Use iatroX when: You want a substantially larger question bank (720+ vs ~150), AI-powered adaptive learning, and access to other exams in the same subscription.
Key Differences
Question Volume
This is the most significant difference. iatroX offers nearly 5x the question volume of Crit-IQ. For an exam with only ~400 candidates per year, having 720+ dedicated questions is substantial.
FFICM Pass Rates
The FFICM overall oral pass rate is ~57%. The MCQ pass rate is higher (~86%), but the OSCE (~72%) and SOE (~72%) are where most candidates struggle. iatroX's Brainstorm feature can simulate ICM cases relevant to OSCE/SOE preparation — a capability no MCQ-only bank offers.
Public information as of 2 April 2026. Trademarks belong to their owners.
Use-Cases
FFICM MCQ Preparation
When to choose iatroX
- **Significantly larger bank** (720+ vs ~150). AI explains ICM guidelines behind wrong answers. Adaptive engine identifies weak areas across ventilation, sedation, organ support, ethics.
When to choose Crit-IQ
- Smaller but dedicated FFICM bank. May cover niche ICM scenarios in depth.
FFICM OSCE/SOE Preparation
When to choose iatroX
- Brainstorm feature simulates ICM cases for OSCE/SOE practice. AI Q&A supports data interpretation and communication scenarios.
When to choose Crit-IQ
- MCQ focus only. Does not cover OSCE or SOE preparation.
ICM Trainee Also Preparing for MRCP
When to choose iatroX
- **Winner.** One subscription covers FFICM (paid) + MRCP Part 1 (free). Natural combination for dual CCT trainees.
When to choose Crit-IQ
- FFICM only. You would need a separate product for MRCP.
FAQs
- How many FFICM questions does iatroX have?
- More than 720, mapped to the FICM curriculum. The bank is continuously growing.
- Is Crit-IQ the same as BMJ OnExamination for FFICM?
- No. Crit-IQ is a separate, independent FFICM Q-bank. BMJ OnExamination also offers FFICM content, but it has been reported by candidates to overlap with FRCA material.
- Does iatroX help with the FFICM OSCE and SOE?
- The Brainstorm feature can simulate ICM clinical scenarios relevant to OSCE and SOE preparation. The Q-bank focuses on the MCQ component.