Are you living with a neurological condition? Would you like to help teach medical students using your lived experience?
Join the Expert Patient Tutor Programme!
What is it?
Oxford Medical School brings together people who have certain brain and nerve problems to help teach future doctors. They're called Expert Patient Tutors (EPTs). These EPTs share their own stories and help medical students learn how to check patients properly.
We are currently inviting adults who have the following conditions to join the Expert Patient Tutor Programme:
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Multiple sclerosis
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Parkinson’s disease
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Peripheral neuropathy (often caused by diabetes)
You don't need to know a lot about medicine! Anyone with these conditions can apply. You'll get paid £27.07 for each hour you help, plus your travel costs will be covered. It's a great way to help doctors-to-be learn how to give better treatment to people living with these conditions.
Please get in touch with us if you’re interested!
Will I receive training?
Before deciding whether you want to participate, you are invited to attend an information session where we talk you through the details of the programme, including how EPTs work with our students and teaching faculty. We will also provide a coaching session on how to interact with and provide feedback to medical students. Participants will be paid for attending this session even if they do not decide to proceed with the rest of the programme.
What sessions are available to teach on?
Group sessions run on some Fridays throughout the year. On average, EPTs participate once every couple of months. In these, students work with our EPTs and neurology doctors in a small group setting to hear about the EPTs’ experience of their condition and to practice their neurological examination skills. The EPT sessions typically last about 1.5 hours.
There will also be opportunities to be involved in other teaching sessions and medical school examinations should that be of interest.
What is teaching on the EPT Programme like?
Most of our EPTs find participating in the program a fulfilling and energising experience. EPT sessions always have a qualified doctor present to provide support or if you have any concerns. All venues are fully accessible. Refreshments are provided.
“I always felt safe and well-supported during these sessions as I was accompanied by an expert clinician who would facilitate and lead the session.” Jon, EPT
“I hope to see doctors who are able to inspire confidence, through their medical ability, and trust, through their skill in patient interactions. Together, this will lead to better treatment and outcomes for patients. Being an EPT is my small way of contributing to this.” Rachel, EPT
If you are interested or would like to have an informal chat about the EPT program, please contact Professor Gabriele De Luca (Director of Clinical Neurosciences Undergraduate Education, Oxford Medical School) at teachingdirector@ndcn.ox.ac.uk or the Academic Administration Team at undergraduate@ndcn.ox.ac.uk.
