Simulated Patients

The Simulated Patient Programme 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)


What does a Simulated Patient do and why?

Simulated Patients pretend to have a health problem so that medical and dental students can practice interviewing patients away from the hussle and bussle of a busy hospital ward.

Do I need any special skills?

 No – just a willingness to help. A sense of humour is also useful!

What task will I have? 

 We will give you a short description or scenario of a health or dental problem to learn so that a student can ask you about the symptoms in the scenario and how they have been affecting you.

Will I get any training?

Yes – training is very informal. It usually one to one with you and the programme manager (Fiona) in private. You can have as much training as you feel that you need before you see any students. We also meet regularly after you see students for more training and to review how you feel that you are getting on.

Do I need to know about any medical problems?

No - You will be given all the information that you need to know. The answers to any questions that the students might ask are all in a scenario that we give you.

Where will I be based?

 Usually you would come to the Clinical Skills Centre on the Foresterhill hospital site. Occasionally, you would be asked to help elsewhere on the Foresterhill site.

Who will look after me?

 The Simulated Patient Programme Manager (Fiona Stewart) will be your contact person. She is also the person who will supervise you and provide your training. Other Clinical Skills Centre staff are always on hand to help.

What if I forget the health problems in my scenario?

 Don’t worry!  Most of us forget something when we visit the doctor – a simulated patient is no different!

Do I need acting experience?

 No – Most Simulated Patients pretend or role-play problems as themselves. But if you want to act it is okay. 
(link to example interview videos)

Do I have to have a health problem to become a Simulated Patient?

No – We try to make sure that you do not have the health or dental problem that you will role-play.

Do simulated patients get physically examined?

Usually no – but occasionally for student exams a few simulated patients agree to simple examinations, for example, of the hand. We always ask for your permission and it is not a problem if you do not want to be examined.

Who are the simulated patients?

The simulated patients are a group of friendly volunteers from all walks of life who give some time to help medical and dental students learn how to become doctors. Some have become friends through their involvement.

Does the simulated patient programme need your help?

We are always looking for new volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life and cultures. We want to offer our students the chance to learn with the widest range of people. 

Do simulated patients receive payment?

No – but we do offer travel expenses and if you help out with student exams we offer lunch.

Do Simulated Patients receive any recognition for their help?

Yes – once a year we organise a ‘Thank You Lunch’. A representative from the medical school makes a thank you speech and lets you know of any relevant news. Past lunch venues have included The Carron Restaurant in Stonehaven and Maryculter House Hotel.

How much time will it involve?

It is entirely up to you – You can help from once a year up to several times a month. We are grateful for any help!

I am interested in becoming a simulated patient – Where do I get more information? 

Contact Fiona Stewart, The Simulated Patient Programme Manager (see below)

OR you can complete the online form (link to form)

Fiona Stewart
Simulated Patient Programme Manager
Room 129, Clinical Skills Centre
The Suttie Centre for Teaching and Learning in Healthcare 
University of Aberdeen
Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD

Tel 01224 437723 (08.00-13.30)

 f.stewart@abdn.ac.uk