Despite ever increasing advances in AI, the Undergraduate Medical School is keeping things ‘real’ for their students by using Volunteer Patients to help teach communication and clinical examination skills in Year 1 and 2. Volunteers have been used by the Medical School, for this purpose, since 2008, and their contribution is highly valued by students and staff alike.

For students, it is a chance to practise their skills in a safe and supportive setting, and to meet some of the population of the West of Scotland – their future patients!

For Volunteers, it is an opportunity to help train doctors of the future, learn about Medical Education and socialise with other Volunteers. Travel expenses are covered, and tea, coffee and lunch vouchers are provided.

Current Volunteer, Jim Melrose, has been involved for over 10 years:

‘I enjoy being a Volunteer Patient, as it gives me contact with young people developing the skills required to become an effective doctor. As a former secondary school teacher, I find it rewarding to see students at the next stage of their education - to see them develop confidence in their ability to manage a consultation.’

Professor Lindsey Pope, GP and Professor of Medical Education, has worked with the Volunteers for many years:

‘Volunteers play a very important role in the early years of our curriculum. They help us to lay the foundations of communication and clinical examination skills teaching with our newest students. The students love the opportunity to practise their skills while also introducing them to the friendly and diverse population of Glasgow.’

If you are interested in becoming involved, please contact:

med-sch-simulatedpatients@glasgow.ac.uk

Or look at our website:

Simulated Patient Programme

 

Dr Roslyn Pettigrew

Lead for Simulated Patients

First published: 28 May 2025

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