Do you live near a university and are comfortable having your blood pressure taken or having a basic medical exam? If so, working as a simulated patient (also known as a “Standardised Patient”) could be an interesting and rewarding way to earn some extra cash.
Simulated Patients are everyday people who perform the role of a ‘pretend’ patient. They’re used in healthcare training, for assessments such as Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), which are undertaken by medical students and health professionals. The role involves memorising a script or health history, and then playing the role of the patient, while the student is assessed.
The types of assessments vary, but might include straightforward assessments, such as:
– A basic health history being taken
– A non-invasive exam (eg. an examination of your arm or leg)
– Basic obs such as heart rate, blood pressure, or temperature
– ECG
There are also some more complex assessments, including assessments that involve sensitive exams, such as a pelvic exam or discussion of sensitive topics (eg. miscarriage or assault). Simulated patients are always advised beforehand of the type of assessment that will be taking place, so that they are able to choose which exams/assessments they are comfortable participating in.
So how much can you make?
In terms of the amount of work available, it varies and is dependent and on university study periods and assessment schedules. Monash advise on the application form that the work is only available on an occasional basis, with November usually being their busiest time. Due to the varying amount of work on offer, it doesn’t offer a regular income, but can be a great side hustle to earn some extra cash during assessment and exam periods.
What are the requirements of the role?
Most of these roles don’t require any previous experience, and training and coaching is provided. There are a few common requirements, however, which usually include:
– Proof of the right to work in Australia
– A good memory
– Good communication skills
– Being at least 18 years of age
– A professional attitude (eg. being reliable, arriving on time, demonstrating appropriate behaviour during the sessions etc)
Most programs don’t require experience, but there are a couple of universities that list a couple of specific requirements. These include:
– A healthcare background
– Previous acting experience
Some of the assessments also require simulated patients that meet certain criteria, depending on what is being assessed. There might also be exclusion criteria if a simulated patient has a certain medical condition that may affect the ability for the student to perform the assessment.
How can you apply to become a patient role-player?
There are several universities and exam centres in Australia that are currently accepting applications for their simulated patient programs.
Note: The list below only includes programs where participants are paid, as some of the other university programs are unpaid.
Victoria
Monash University
ALEC
In 2023, Assessment Learning and Examination Centre (ALEC) was opened in Melbourne by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. The centre is specifically designed to host medical exams. You can apply to be part of the program here:
https://alec.edu.au/simulated-patients-program/Tasmania
University of Tasmania
Simulated Patient Program: The University of Tasmania are looking for people from all over Tasmania to be part of their Simulated Patient program. Online training is provided, then you’ll be offered a chance to practice with experienced Simulated Patients before you start working.
Clinical Teaching Associate (CTA) Program: UTAS also have casual positions available for their CTA program. This program involves sensitive medical exams for both women and men (eg. groin examinations). No medical experience is necessary, and sessions run for 3 hours (each CTA is examined once during the session).
Queensland
The University of Queensland
The University of Queensland is accepting applications from people who are interested in being part of their Simulated Patient program. Successful applications will be employed by the University of Queensland as casual employees, and receive paid training.
Griffith University
Western Australia
Curtin Medical School
Curtin University are accepting expressions of interest for their Simulated Patient program, which is part of the medical program at the Perth campus. They’ve produced a fantastic guide which is available online, called the Simulated Patient Information Booklet 2024. It covers everything you’ll need to know, including the structure of the sessions, what to expect, providing feedback, guidelines, and more.
Payment is either a $50 or $100 voucher, depending type of session, and session length, and light refreshments will be provided.
To apply, visit https://www.curtin.edu.au/about/learning-teaching/health-sciences/about/patient-volunteer-eoi/
Australian Capital Territory
Australian National University
ANU is located in Canberra, and utilises Simulated Patients (Role-Players) in the delivery of it’s medical program. You’ll need some previous experience for these roles. ANU requires some experience in communications or role-playing training, and experience in educational or health care training. If you have experience in acting, this is also considered to be beneficial.
Pay rates are available online here (under S3.4), and to apply, visit https://medicalschool.anu.edu.au/connect/simulated-patients-role-players
Overall, being a simulated patient in Australia can be a unique, rewarding experience. Aside from the flexibility and extra cash, it provides a great opportunity to make a real impact on healthcare. If you’re passionate about helping others and have a knack for acting and communication, this could be the perfect side hustle for you.
