You will participate in several training sessions prior to exam day. On the exam day, you will see and evaluate several student doctors. These visits will consist of an interview, a physical exam, and a communication evaluation.
RVU-MCOM
Standardized Patient Encounters
Standardized Patient (SP) Encounters
Standardized Patients (SPs) are an essential component to a medical student’s education. SPs are hired and trained by RVU-MCOM to serve as actors to accurately portray the role of a patient with a specific medical condition. They provide students with direct human interaction in a safe learning environment. SPs are paid an hourly wage and come from all walks of life. Most importantly, SPs should have a genuine interest in helping students learn.
Standardized Patient’s help students learn to:
- Perform a physical exam
- Take a thorough medical history
- Build a rapport with patients
These are fundamental clinical skills that all graduates must demonstrate and are graded on.
The SP Program, additionally, is responsible for the design, development, delivery and assessment of faculty development programs to enhance the continuous improvement of the faculty who teach our students.
Standardized Patient FAQs
What will I have to do?
When will the sessions take place?
Sessions can take place anytime during the work week (Monday through Friday). Some evening and Saturday sessions will be coordinated, when warranted.
Where will the sessions take place?
On the RVUCOM campus in either Parker, Colorado or Ivins, Utah, depending on which location hired you.
In Billings, Montana, at Rocky Vista University-Montana College of Osteopathic Medicine (MCOM) simulation center.
Who can participate in the program?
The program is committed to providing opportunities for health professions students to interact with a diverse patient population reflective of actual clinical practice. Individuals of all ages, backgrounds, educations, cultures, and experiences are encouraged to participate.
We are looking for people:
- From all walks of life
- With excellent written and verbal communication skills
- With a genuine interest in helping students learn
- With reasonably flexible hours
- Who are comfortable dealing with health professionals
- Who are reliable and punctual
Why should I become a Standardized Patient?
Standardized Patients enjoy participating in the education of future healthcare providers. They also enjoy interacting with students and their instructors. Many Standardized Patients directly benefit by becoming more empowered communicators with medical personnel and more active participants in their own healthcare decisions.
Will I get paid?
Standardized patients earn an hourly rate that varies depending on the activity.
Contact Form
If you are interested in becoming a standardized patient, please fill out the form below, and someone will be in contact shortly.
Additional Resources
Tracks & Special Programs
Tracks & Special Programs
Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine has developed several specialized educational tracks and programs to further develop the education of interested students. These range from 3.5-year-long tracks to single-semester elective courses.
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Office of Research & Scholarly Activity
Office of Research & Scholarly Activity
Student research/scholarly activity is a vital part of health provider education. Research enhances critical thinking skills and increases medical knowledge, as well as preparing students for graduate medical education. Therefore, all students are encouraged to participate in research activities while at RVU.
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Clinical Education
Clinical Education
During their third and fourth years of medical school, students work on clinical clerkships, under the guidance of preceptors. RVU students have clerkships available to them through Colorado and the other Mountain West states.
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