DPT Standardized Patient

Standardized Patient (Casual, As-Needed)
Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, Harrisburg, PA

About the role

Harrisburg University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is hiring Standardized Patients (SPs) to help train the next generation of physical therapists. An SP is trained to portray a real patient case in a consistent, repeatable way. DPT students then interview, examine, and work through a treatment plan with you as they would with an actual patient.

This is a casual, as-needed position. Work is scheduled in 4-hour shifts tied to lab sessions and student assessments. Shifts are not on a recurring schedule, so you can accept the ones that fit your availability.

What you’ll do

You will learn an assigned patient case, including the history, symptoms, and personality of the person you are portraying, and present it the same way with each student. Many encounters involve hands-on physical examination, so you should be comfortable being touched, moved through range of motion, and positioned on a treatment table. After encounters, you may be asked to give students feedback or complete a short checklist on how they communicated with you. DPT faculty supervise every session.

What we’re looking for

The right person is reliable and on time, can memorize and stick to a script, and takes direction well. You should be comfortable with physical contact during an exam and willing to give students honest, constructive feedback. You’ll also need to keep case materials and student performance confidential. Experience in acting, teaching, or healthcare is helpful. People of all ages, body types, and backgrounds are encouraged to apply, since students learn best by working with a range of patients. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Preference is given to individuals with a background as a healthcare professional.

Training and expectations

Before your first shift, every SP completes a standardized orientation and training. You’ll also get case-specific preparation before each assignment. Before taking part in lab activities, you’ll be briefed on any potential risks and asked to sign a consent form, and you may decline to participate at any time. SP performance is reviewed once a year.

Pay and schedule

Pay rate: $50.00 per hour. Shifts are 4 hours and are held on the Harrisburg campus at 222 Chestnut Street. Shift dates follow the DPT academic calendar, and you will be notified of opportunities as they come up.

Harrisburg University is an equal opportunity employer.