Become a volunteer patient

Volunteer patients are a mix of healthy volunteers and patients with actual signs and symptoms who participate in medical exams where students clinically examine the volunteer. 

There are no formal skills or qualifications required to join our Volunteer Patient Bank. All of our volunteers share an interest in helping with medical education. We understand that the time people are able to give varies so we work flexibly with you according to your availability. 

People of all ages, genders, physical conditions and backgrounds can participate. No previous experience is necessary. Some clinical skills exams require people to be in generally good health, while others require specific symptoms or conditions. Here is a list of some of the common conditions we are looking for: 

  • Neurological problems: for example, Parkinson’s disease, previous stroke, previous spine or brain surgery, peripheral neuropathies
  • Heart problems: for example, heart murmur, heart failure, valve disease, heart scarring
  • Chest/breathing problems: for example, previous TB, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, lung scarring, restrictive lung disease or anything related
  • Abdominal problems: for example, any stoma, liver problems, palpable (you can feel it touching the abdomen) liver, spleen or kidney including transplant
  • Joint problems: for example, rheumatoid arthritis, severe osteoarthritis
  • Dermatological problems: for example, psoriasis, eczema

As a small thank you for being a volunteer you will receive lunch and refreshments, a high-street voucher and transport to and from the venue. 

If you are interested in applying, please fill out the form below. If you are unable to do so, please call us on 0151 318 2020.

Apply now