Recruiting and Retaining BME Communities as Simulated Patients

1. Karen Ousey Lauren Holland Recruiting and Retaining BME Communities as Simulated Patients

2. University of Huddersfield

3. Acknowledgements • The authors would like to thank the University of Huddersfield and Bradford Primary Care Trust for funding this project

4. Background • The black and ethnic minority communities are currently under represented within the simulated patient cohort • Health Care Providers work in a multi-cultural health care environment • Term simulated patients can cause confusion

5. Understanding • First step is understanding!

6. Explore understanding of the role of SPs Investigate potential barriers in recruiting and retaining from black and minority ethnic communities Identify training needs for BME communities to support the simulated patient role Aims

7. Methodology • Qualitative • 12 month period • Ethics approval successfully gained • Semi Structured Interviews • Sampling • Self selecting • Application via web or self application • 25 interviews

8. Data Analysis • Emergent Themes • Cultural awareness • Concept of power • Inequalities • Terminology • Citizenship

9. Understanding of the role • Terminology • Science fiction, pretend patient • Interpretation • An actor • Support training programme • Health related • Have had experience of illness as carer or patient • “Someone who has the illness or condition” • Demonstrator of health problem

10. Language Racism Religious/cultural rules Lack of sharing and trust within communities Time and commitment Cultural generation diversity Lack of awareness of other cultures Being under the spotlight Potential barriers

11. Training Needs • Development of communication skills • Insight into different cultures • Support to develop in role • Clear guidance • Clear safety and protection regulations

12. Interpreter Enrich educational experience Support health care providers and educators Contribution to the community Develops personality Supports community Benefits

13. Conclusion • Reflector of cultural needs • Sharing of ‘Inter Cultural’ needs • Recognition of provider educational needs

14. Thank You