Volunteer Simulated Patient Program

What is a Volunteer Patient?

Volunteer Simulated Patients (VSPs) are community members who generously give their time to support the training of future doctors. By participating in teaching and examination sessions at the School of Medicine, Sydney, VSPs help medical students develop essential communication and clinical skills in a safe, supportive, and simulated environment. This hands-on experience is invaluable in preparing students to become skilled, compassionate, and ethical healthcare providers.

What does a VSP do?

VSPs take part in small, interactive teaching sessions or medical student examinations, guided by clinical educators. They portray patients in role-play scenarios, helping students practise history taking, communication, and basic physical examination skills. The sessions are generally face to face but could be on a video call to simulate telehealth on occasion.

VSPs are provided with a script or scenario that includes all the information needed to play the role. You can choose the sessions you'd like to be involved in and indicate whether you're comfortable participating in history-taking, physical examination, or both.

Physical examinations do not involve sensitive areas, and VSPs are never invited to participate in the teaching of skills involving needles or invasive procedures.

VSPs also have the opportunity to give feedback to students about their performance, offering a unique and valuable perspective that enhances student learning.

Why should I volunteer?

Because it's fun, meaningful, and rewarding! As a VSP, you:

  • Play a vital role in educating future doctors.
  • Share your perspective on what patients value in healthcare.
  • Tap into your acting skills and step into different characters.
  • Meet interesting people and engage in a positive learning environment.
  • Learn new skills and medical terminology along the way.

How do I get started?

No experience is needed, just a willingness to participate and learn! All VSPs receive training and ongoing support.

To express your interest, please complete our registration form, and we’ll be in touch with more information.

Contact us

If you still have questions about what it would mean for you to partake in the Volunteer Simulated Patient Program, please contact us.

Phone: 02 8204 4464
Email: sydney.medicine@nd.edu.au