The impact of repeated simulation on health and healthcare perceptions of simulated patients

ObjectiveTo explore the effect of simulating medical conditions on simulated patients (SPs). Main points of interest are influence on: perception of personal health and perception of their relation with the health care provider (HCP), personal well being.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were undertaken with eight experienced, well-selected SPs involved in communication training at the medical faculty of Ghent University. Content of the data were analysed qualitatively.ResultsSPs believe that their medical knowledge improved, which changes their health-seeking behaviour. Simulating made SPs realize that being a doctor is difficult, making them more critical towards their own GP. SPs enjoy their work; they feel happy and content afterwards. Negative effects are stress, anxiety, exhaustion, dissatisfaction and sleeping problems.DiscussionThe perceived ‘increased knowledge’ leads to a different way of dealing with symptoms. It is positive that SPs are more critical towards their GP, this leads to a more equal relationship. The effects of stress and anxiety probably contribute positively to the performance. Dissatisfaction, anxiety and sleeping problems could be work-related and consequently occur in practicing other occupations.Practice implicationsProper selection, preparation and guidance could minimize the problems encountered during simulation.