What happens in PTA sessions?
The session is based on a consultation that you could expect if you were meeting a doctor at your GP clinic for the first time. It is not assumed that you have attended with a particular problem needing attention, more that the student doctors want to get an overall picture of your health situation at the time. 
During the consultation, students practice either history-taking, clinical examination, or reviewing a management plan with the patient, under the supervision of a clinical tutor. Typically, one student is allocated to each role (history, examination, management) during the consultation.
At the end of each consultation, students are provided verbal and written feedback on their task performance and patient-centredness by the patient, followed by self-reflection and feedback from peers and the clinical tutor.
Do the feedback comments in PTA contribute towards the students’ final marks?
No, all feedback provided in PTA is formative (i.e., it does not contribute to the students’ final marks).
How long does the session go for?
We ask volunteers to attend between 1:15pm and 4:30pm. During this time patients see two groups of 3 students with a break in between groups for afternoon tea.
How many PTAs are needed on a day?
Four PTAs are required each Friday afternoon.
How often do you need to volunteer?
It is up to you, but no more than three times a semester. Ideally, we would like our students not to see the same patient twice.
Can I get a second opinion from the students about my condition?
No, our students and clinical tutors do not offer you medical advice or treatment.
