Standardized Patients
A standardized patient (SP) is an individual trained to portray a clinical patient accurately in a simulated medical visit.
SPs play a vital role in the education of medical students at Alice L. Walton School of Medicine (AWSOM) by portraying patients’ medical history, condition, and emotional state accurately and consistently to create meaningful learning experiences.
SPs are facilitators, providing critical feedback to students and contributing to the creation of a safe learning environment in which students can hone their skills in medical history-taking and physical examinations.
We appreciate your interest in supporting medical education through the AWSOM Standardized Patient Program. We are not accepting applications at this time.
Who can apply?
SPs are individuals from all walks of life who bring their experiences to a medical simulation with an AWSOM student doctor. No previous medical health knowledge or acting experience is needed. SPs present their symptoms and concerns, answer questions, provide detailed medical histories, and even display physical and emotional states appropriate for the scenario. Each SP is thoroughly trained for the respective sessions.
What are the minimum qualifications?
Flexible schedule and available during weekdays for part-time work (under 14 hours/week)
Punctuality and access to reliable transportation
Excellent communication skills
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Us
Contact the AWSOM SP team at StandardizedPatients@alwmed.org.