A woman who volunteers as a patient at her local hospital has described her experience – as the service appeals for more people to get involved.
Carol Granger, 66 from Stockton, gives up her time at the University Hospital of North Tees as a patient. She helps to train medical students and often role plays different medical conditions so students, under supervision, can practice their history and examination skills.
Carol said: “We use different scenarios and role-play exercises. For example, I might play Mrs Jones who has food poisoning, and the students will ask me questions to work out what’s wrong with me.
“They’ll carry out examinations and practice their clinical skills in a safe environment.
“We also help the staff practice delivering bad news to patients and work through conflict-resolution scenarios.
“You don’t have to be a professional actor. There are experienced healthcare professionals on hand to support volunteers if needed.”
“It’s lovely seeing the students improve and watching their confidence grow over time.”
Dr Liam McHale, GP lecturer at the hospital to lead undergraduate teaching, said: “We are always grateful when patients volunteer to help with medical student teaching. It gives students the chance to speak to a real person and learn from genuine experiences.
“We welcome all sorts of volunteers; anyone can get involved.
“We’re lucky to have so many students at North Tees and Hartlepool , gaining experience for their medical careers.
“As medicine is changing, and people are often discharged from hospital more quickly than in the past, students do not always get the opportunity to see a wide range of conditions, so it’s important they can learn from volunteers.
“It’s not a big commitment. The more volunteers we have, the better equipped we are to provide students with realistic learning experiences.”
How to get involved
Anyone interested in becoming a patient volunteer, or finding out more, can contact the Undergraduate Education Department on 01642 624295 or email [email protected]
There is free parking and free transport, a £30 shopping voucher, and refreshments for all volunteers.