Postgraduate students as simulated patients in communication skills learning and assessment

At the Manipal College of Medical Sciences communication skills learning and assessment has been carried out for over 7 years. Postgraduate MSc students in Pharmacology were recently used as simulated patients during learning and assessment of communication skills. The purpose was to train postgraduates to plan, initiate and conduct sessions and to help them in their future role as medical teachers. Common problems and illnesses in Nepal and South Asia were covered and the communication of drug and non-drug information to the patient was emphasised. The postgraduates enjoyed the sessions and found them interesting and useful. Feedback from 116 students was obtained using a modified Likert-type scale. The students were in favour of postgraduate students as simulated patients. Continuation and improvement of the sessions is planned for the future.