Outcomes & Testimonials

Testimonials

School of Medicine Student Feedback

“It gave us a chance to encounter different patient experiences in a safe environment. It is really good practice for real patients.”

“Putting students in uncomfortable situations in a safe environment (e.g., discussing religion, HIV) is a great way to explore how those issues can be addressed in a clinical setting.”

“The standardized patient interviewing is the best portion of the course and the most informative. It makes me think about circumstances that I couldn't have imagined on my own.”

“Actually going through an experience like this is much better than just reading or talking about it. I thought I knew what I was going to say, but it was much harder actually getting thoughts and words out.”

“Very realistic portrayals. It was very uncomfortable, but this was not necessarily a bad thing, as these interactions will always be difficult.”

"They were realistic scenarios that I deal with on a regular basis. The SPs also pointed out some tendencies I have acquired as a resident that I wasn't aware of."

"The guidance we were given in communication - concrete and tremendously helpful advice that we can implement. The role playing was very helpful in teasing out our strengths and weaknesses." [Faculty Development]

Other Client Feedback

“Our SPs were exceptional beyond my wildest expectations. The residents told me they are among the best they have seen.” --Scott Trerotola, MD, FACR, Chief of Interventional Radiology and  Vice Chair, Quality & Safety

“They were realistic scenarios that I deal with on a regular basis. SPs also pointed out some tendencies I’ve acquired as a resident that I wasn't aware of.” -- Medicine Intern

“The SP was outstanding and made it feel very real. The feedback from the SP, nurse and the attendings were very insightful and helpful.” --Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) Fellow

“Really found this to be incredibly helpful. Found words that I say that are not helpful and too dramatic.” --Radiation Oncology Resident

“Focus on communication not in a dental chair was great! The fact we have this class sends a good sign to the community of dental school that patient care is important for us! Loved this, please continue for underclassmen and more frequently for us!” — Dental Student, 2014

“I like how real it felt. It truly made me look at how I talk to clients as opposed to interacting with someone I know.” — Veterinary Student, 2013

“The SPs were superb - the best ones I have ever interacted with.  Their suggestions were very helpful.” — CHOP Hem/Onc Fellow, 2014

End User Benefits

chart showing Communication training with Penn SP's as most beneficial compared to other types of training
Communications training with Penn SPs was ranked as the most beneficial, according to a 2014 simulation needs assessment survey of department chairs, program and specialty directors, nursing education, faculty and instructors throughout Penn Medicine.

This is as compared to human patient mannequin, high fidelity trainers, low fidelity trainers, virtual reality trainers.

SPs used in Penn Med Experience starting in FY12Q2; Penn nationally recognized by Press Ganey for improved patient satisfaction scores (see chart) 

SPs and Likelihood to Reccomend is very good (above 82.1%)