Queens University has run a successful Standardized Patient Program for almost 20 years and at present consists of a team of over 100 people. The program is constantly expanding to meet the challenges, needs and expectations of a dynamic and increasingly innovative health care system.
The program is used by medical, nursing and rehabilitation therapy students as well as qualified health care professionals. It enables tutors to facilitate a safe and realistic learning environment in which students can practice communication and examination skills learned in the classroom, and aids in the development of compassionate and skilled health care professionals.
A Standardized Patient (SP) is an actor who is trained to convincingly portray the physical, historical and emotional features of a specific clinical problem, based on a real patient. This is done in a way that is valid, consistent, reproducible and measureable. Roles may vary in their complexity and sometimes SPs are required to give feedback to the students. The SPs role is to be a valuable and effective teaching aid which enhances the students’ learning. Standardized Patients are used for both teaching and examination of health care students.
Standardized Patients are casual employees of the university. This means that they are employed intermittently as dictated by the requirements of the GWCEC users and the courses being run.
SPs are paid an hourly rate which may vary according to the type of work they are participating in.
Anyone can apply to be a Standardized Patient. The minimum age is 14 years. There is no maximum age.
We provide training in a professional, working environment and whilst an acting or drama background is an asset, it is not a requirement. You just need to have a confident and sociable personality, be reliable and be willing to learn.
If you would like to join our fun and innovative team or would like more information on the Standardized Patient Program, please contact:
Caroline Averns
Undergraduate Medical Education
Program Coordinator
e-mail: caroline.averns@queensu.ca
Tel: 613-533-6000 x 79307
