A patient simulation program for trainee doctors has been running for about 16 years at Shepparton's Melbourne University Rural Clinical School in Graham St.
District people are recruited to act as patients complaining of a range of symptoms from heart palpitations to a headache or a sore knee.
It's up to the student doctor to ask the right questions to find out what's wrong — while an examiner sits in on the consultation to observe and take notes.
Similar programs are run in Wangaratta, Ballarat and Bendigo.
School student and programs co-ordinator Lou Bush said actors were given scripts with answers to any expected questions second-year student doctors came up with.
She said physical examinations were avoided.
“We can't have 20 students pressing someone's abdomen or moving their knee around,” Ms Bush said.
She said recruiting people to act as patients could be challenging.
“In Melbourne we employ professional actors — but in the country we rely on friends and supporters. We have a list of people to draw from — but we are always looking for more,” she said.
She said finding men aged between 20 and 50 could be difficult because of work requirements.
She said acting experience was not required, just an ability to stick to the script, memorise the correct replies, and have good communication skills.
“The key is to be consistent because it is part of the student's exam results,” she said.
Medical student education deputy director Mark Vella said actors were also encouraged to talk to examiners after the consultation.
“We need to find out from the actors how they experienced the student doctor's bedside manner and communication skills — was it warm or a bit cold?" Mr Vella said.
Shepparton Theatre Arts Group life member Dale Roberts has played the role of patient for the past three years.
“It can be really rewarding, knowing you are contributing to a young doctor's career, but you have to be consistent to make it fair for everyone,” Ms Roberts said.
She said it was also important to be believable.
“So if the doctor asks how much alcohol you drink — you have to act a bit grumpy if they question your reply,” she said.
Anyone interested in being a simulated patient can contact Ms Bush on 5823 4574.
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