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Standardized Patient Program: Methodology

Standardized patient simulation involves utilizing trained individuals to portray the roles of patients, family members or others for the instruction and assessment of clinical skills.

As the name implies, standardized patients (SPs) offer a standardized, controlled experience for learners. Sessions are measurable and reproducible, unlike peer role-play or the use of actors who haven’t received professional SP training.

SPs receive rigorous training to maintain a consistent, highly realistic portrayal. They are carefully coached to portray an actual patient with a particular medical problem, medical history, personality and emotional traits.

They’re also prepared extensively to give feedback to trainees on communication and interpersonal skills, and in many cases, to complete scoring checklists.

The Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) and the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) acknowledge SP methodology as a valid, reliable tool for training and evaluation in undergraduate and graduate medical education settings.

The use of SPs facilitates practice in critical thinking, patient safety, crisis management, team interaction, decision-making and communication skills, and competence in clinical techniques and procedures.

Interested in becoming a standardized patient?

Read our FAQs and apply here.

Contact us

Emily Pritchard, RN BSN
RN Simulation Specialist
Emily.Pritchard@PrismaHealth.org
864-455-3567

 

Kara Templeton, RN BSN
RN Simulation Specialist
Kara.Templeton@PrismaHealth.org
864-455 8728

 

Clare Shaffer, MLA
SP Simulation Specialist 
Clare.Shaffer@PrismaHealth.org
864-455-5278