Standardized Patient Program at TUSPM
At TUSPM, our Standardized Patient Program enhances classroom learning by offering students hands-on experience and personalized attention. In collaboration with our Clinical Faculty, students can apply classroom knowledge by practicing with trained and skilled professional ‘patients’ from the start of their educational journey.
Evolution of Standardized Patients
The concept of "standardized patients" has evolved significantly. Initially known as "programmed patients," this method began with individuals mimicking neurological, and later other biomedical systems, for video-recorded physical examination instruction. Recognizing the potential beyond initial programming, physician instructors expanded the role to include various types of standardized patients. Today at TUSPM, we utilize three forms: Standardized Patients, Patient Instructors, and Simulated Patients.
Standardized Patients
Standardized Patients (SPs) are trained to portray patients comprehensively, including medical history, physical findings, and the attitudes and beliefs patients bring to clinical encounters. This role supports busy physician instructors by providing consistent and effective training for students. SPs are used to assess cultural competency and play a critical role in the Clinical Skills portion of Licensing Board Examinations.
The testing system that uses Standardized Patients is the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). In the OSCE, students perform one on one scripted clinical encounters, with physician observers. The OSCE assessment combines the evaluation of the observing physician and the impressions of the Standardized Patient, contributing to the development of well-rounded medical graduates.
Patient Instructors
Patient Instructors (PIs) work closely with Physician Instructors to merge biomedical science education with clinical practice. In the first year, Standardized Patients act as PIs, helping students with their initial physical examinations. PIs provide a neutral human subject for students to gain practical experience, reinforcing lecture material with hands-on practice. PIs are trained in current methods and standards to ensure students receive high-quality instruction and individualized attention in small group settings.
Simulated Patients
Simulated Patients represent an advanced form of the standardized patient method, tailored to meet students' learning needs. Unlike Standardized Patients, who are primarily used for assessment, Simulated Patients focus on addressing individual student needs in a learning capacity. During one-on-one clinical simulation sessions, students practice interviewing, examining, assessing, and diagnosing patients in controlled settings. Simulated Patients provide feedback on students' manner, professionalism, and interpersonal skills, relating these to the core competencies of information gathering and physical examination. Although still overseen by Physician Instructors, SPs are trained to deliver physicians’ insights and expertise consistently to students. While generally not medically trained, Simulated Patients benefit from these clinician instructors and help students understand the capabilities and limitations they will encounter in real patients.
Through these methods, TUSPM’s Standardized Patient Program provides a comprehensive and nurturing learning environment, preparing students for their future careers as clinical practitioners.
