Simulated Patients
Simulated Patients are specially trained to portray patients realistically and consistently in simulated clinical encounters such as medical interviews. Established in 1995, the Simulated Patient Program is now a vital part of undergraduate medical education at the university. The Program is also used by other organizations for postgraduate teaching and assessment, and for research projects in the health field where the realistic portrayal of patients is required.
Simulated Patients are recruited from the community, and many are trained actors. They represent different parts of society, and vary in terms of age, culture, language, ethnicity and life experience. Upon joining the program, Simulated Patients become casual employees of the university and are paid to attend training sessions as well as their simulated patient activities.
Whilst many of the Simulated Patient Program activities are based in Melbourne, some are conducted in rural centres including Shepparton, Ballarat, Geelong and Bendigo.
In all of their roles, Simulated Patients play an important part in medical education.
More information about the Simulated Patient Program.