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The volunteer patient as an educational resource
Journal of Medical Education
|December 1, 1979
Summary
Volunteer patients significantly enhance health science education by sharing their medical histories and providing feedback. This program highlights the valuable role nonprofessionals can play in training future healthcare providers.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Patient Advocacy
Background:
- Traditional health science education relies on standardized curricula.
- Incorporating real-world patient experiences can deepen student understanding.
- Non-professional involvement in education is an emerging area of interest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the educational impact of volunteer patients in health science teaching.
- To assess the motivation and benefits for participating patients.
- To explore the potential for broader patient involvement in medical training.
Main Methods:
- Patients with documented illnesses volunteered to present their medical histories.
- Students conducted physical examinations on volunteer patients.
- Feedback was collected from students and potentially patients.
Main Results:
- Over 2,500 volunteer patients participated over six years.
- Patients were enthusiastic and highly motivated.
- Significant educational benefits were observed, including nonprofessionals assuming teaching roles.
Conclusions:
- Volunteer patients make substantial contributions to health science education.
- The success of this program suggests a wider applicability in clinical settings.
- Patients may welcome opportunities to contribute to student training.