List of 30 Multiple Mini Interview Questions & Answers
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1.
A fellow medical student often shows up on rotation hung-over and smelling like alcohol. You decide to talk to them in private. Enter the room and have this conversation.
How to Answer
This question is a role-play opportunity or 'acting' question. For acting questions, a panel of interviewers, or perhaps even an actor, will be waiting in the interview room, and you must approach the situation as you would in real life. This role play, or acting style question requires you to enter the room in character and speak to the panel as though they are the fellow medical student that you are approaching in regards to their drinking habits. The interview panel will be looking for strength in character, proper concern, empathy, and an attitude of helpfulness towards your peer.
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Anonymous Answer
"How have the rotations been for you? They have been exhausting for me, both physically and emotionally. Have you been able to cope with the stressful rotations? I know we're all feeling stressed about the long hours and constant work we have to do. Have you been doing anything to take your mind off the rotations? Yeah, I know, we're all busy. Any activity you've been doing to relax? Have you been sleeping well? I am concerned because I have noticed you are smelling of alcohol during the shifts. Is there anything you'd like to talk about? If any of us are not at our best, the patients suffer. Would you like someone to talk to? I am available to talk as well as our colleagues if you'd like. Are you sure you're okay to see patients? I can cover for you if you'd like. I am worried about your well-being as well as the well-being of our patients. If this behavior persists, I will have to tell our attending. Patient safety is my utmost priority."
Rachelle's Response
You ask some really great questions here, and it sounds like the hope is that your colleague will open up to you and have a transparent conversation that leads to change. It's great that you emphasize putting patient safety first.
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"Hey, I've been a little concerned about you lately as I have noticed that you have been showing up to rotation seemingly hungover with the smell of alcohol. Is everything okay? I wanted to talk to you about it personally and privately to confirm my concerns, before going to our supervisor and addressing them. If you don't feel comfortable talking to me about it, can I at least guide or recommend you some resources that might help you? I know medical school is stressful, and I might not understand all the things going on in your life that may be contributing, but I wanted to let you know that I am here for you, not just as a fellow student, but as a friend. If you need anything please come talk to me. I want you to do exceptionally well."
Stephanie's Response
This is such a difficult situation to be faced with, but your response is spot-on! You do a good job of addressing the situation while showing compassion for your classmate. Your conversation feels very natural and authentic.
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2.
If you were given the opportunity to change one thing about the healthcare system, what would you choose to do?
How to Answer
Another policy-based question, this query also looks for your professional perspective. The panel wants to see that you are knowledgable on the healthcare system in your region, showing a keen understanding of the challenges you might face as a medical provider. It is easy to spend time picking apart the healthcare system; however, this question also urges you to take time for reflection and give your perspective and ideas on how to create positive change. Pick your topic of choice and be ready to provide a balanced view of what you would do to create change.
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Anonymous Answer
"I think if I could change one thing about the healthcare system, I would try to contribute to a change from a treatment system to a prevention-based system in regards to the United States healthcare. Healthcare spending is increasing in the US at an unsustainable rate, outpacing GDP growth. One of the reasons is the rise in chronic health conditions, which can be costly to treat. I would try to increase access to healthcare so that patients can address their health issues sooner from a more prevention standpoint rather than later from a treatment standpoint. While working in my parents' post office, I saw many Vietnamese immigrants that spoke little or no English. Although I am not fluent in Vietnamese, the amount I knew helped ease their confusion about shipping. There is a large Vietnamese immigrant community where I live, and the doctors are filled with Vietnamese patients. I want to increase my community's access to healthcare, improving the Vietnamese along the way to better communicate with Vietnamese patients. Language barriers can be a significant barrier to healthcare, and I want to alleviate that problem."
Rachelle's Response
Prevention is a crucial factor to consider. Your response shows a lot of thought and a firm understanding of treatment approaches vs. prevention approaches. I felt a bit lost when you started to discuss your experiences at the post office. I recommend reworking the last half of your response by making a more immediate connection between language barriers and a prevention-based system.
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"While many issues are present, I believe it is necessary to shift to a system that reimburses based on outcome rather than based on the fact that a procedure was formed. While I do knw the prevalence of the issue, I do understand that sometimes people are designated for procedures or medications that are medically unnecessary. In such instances where the procedures are unnecessary, there is the risk of both physical and financial harm to patients. Regarding financial harm, the price of insurance for other patients may increase due to higher than necessary expenditures by insurance companies. Regarding prescriptions, sometimes medications that are significantly more expensive may be prescribed without having palpably higher efficacy than cheaper meds. By switching to results-oriented reimbursement, we can deter the prescription of unnecessary procedures and medications. We will also incentivize medical decision making that puts the patient's wellness first. The primary downside for results-oriented reimbursement is that sometimes a procedure or medical decision is contested amongst professionals, and therefore determining whether the result was optimal relative to other procedures or patients can become subjective. Additionally, sometimes difficult decisions need to be made with urgency and may not allow for ideal preparations and option weighing, though the patient would still benefit from such procedures relative to no medical treatment in those instances. Additionally, hospitals could become strained if they are to receive fewer finances for procedures performed. However, the benefit of placing a priority on patient wellness makes this the one thing I would change in healthcare, and with proper legislation, this could be implemented effectively to improve patient outcomes and reduce the financial strain on patients."
Margarita's Response
You seem to have a lot of knowledge about the healthcare system, that's great! However, if your answer is too wordy, it can tire out the interviewer, and they will eventually stop reading. Try to keep your answer at 2-3 sentences max. You discussed a couple of points; 1. basis of reimbursement, 2. cost of medication, 3. decision making for procedures, 4. the effect on hospitals. Hone in on one point so you can answer the question with focus. Lastly, in the second sentence, you used the word shortcut "knw". Although this is ok for informal texting, be sure to write out all your words to keep it professional.
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3.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be? What is the very first thing you would do with this superpower?
How to Answer
There is no wrong answer to this personal-based MMI question, but you must offer up an intelligent, engaging response that highlights your best human characteristics. Share details about who you are as a person, through this unique storytelling opportunity. Don't be afraid to have fun with this one, and make sure your response is memorable!
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Anonymous Answer
"I would enjoy the power to predict the future. By being able to look into the future I can see what choices I make as a physician and the impact they would have on my patient. I can use this power to choose the most viable to safe approaches for patients, reducing risk as much as possible, but allowing many more opportunities/alternatives for their treatment. Looking from a business perspective, current healthcare costs are high. I could also use this power to invest money in ways that would enable me to fund community service projects or help pay for my patient's treatment."
Stephanie's Response
This sounds like a great superpower to have!
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4.
Under what circumstances would you recommend a homeopathic approach to treatment?
How to Answer
Many people seek out homeopathic treatments when it comes to issues such as asthma, ear infections, allergies, or skin conditions. But where do you draw the line as a medical professional? The panel would like to know that you understand all perspectives when it comes to non-traditional approaches to medical treatment. Be sure to demonstrate an understanding of each side while being able to explain why you think your position is the more sound option.
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5.
How does the American healthcare system differ from the Canadian healthcare system?
How to Answer
The interview panel is looking for your level of understanding when it comes to global approaches to healthcare. The way you answer this query will show the panel that you have an interest in learning about topics outside of your immediate realm. Speak about what you know when it comes to the differences in the Canadian and American health care system. Be sure to approach the pros and cons of each.
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6.
Do you believe a family doctor is obligated to report their patients' infectious disease to their public health agency? Why or why not?
How to Answer
As a physician, you may face ethical dilemmas when it comes to disclosure of patient information and the protection of the public. You have a legal duty and moral obligation of confidentiality; however, some exceptions apply. These exceptions occur when doctors are REQUIRED by law to disclose information, or when the doctors are PERMITTED by law to disclose the information. This exception may include reporting a patients' infectious disease to the public health agency, depending on the region where you plan to practice medicine. Provide a balanced response to this question, fully supporting your stance.
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Anonymous Answer
"A family doctor is required to report communicable diseases to a public health agency because state and federal public health agencies have mandatory reporting requirements for various infectious diseases. However, physicians should only report what is required to ensure that the patient's privacy is protected. For mandatory reporting requirements, the patient should be notified if the disease has to be reported, if possible. Mandatory reporting requirements are necessary for public health agencies in order for those agencies to allocate resources for public health crises, such as epidemics. Reporting should only be done when the threat of public health outweighs the patient's right to privacy, such as in contact tracing used for COVID-19. If the reporting situation was unclear, I would consult my state public health agency for guidance."
Rachelle's Response
It's clear that you have a firm knowledge of physician responsibilities and obligations to various parties. Your answer is clear, confident, and informative. Well done!
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"A physician is always obligated to keep their patient's information and medical care private. However, I believe there are exceptions to this rule. If a patient's condition/disease is highly contagious and poses a greater threat to the public then the physician is morally obligated to report this to the public health agency. The information disclosed should only be enough for the agency to act with urgency, and not any greater than it would place a patient's privacy at risk. The patient in this scenario must also be informed of the decision of the physician, as they have a right to know how their medical information is being utilized. Physicians must familiarize themselves with mandatory state laws, as doing so may allow a physician to act with urgency and understand which scenarios would allow them to act under a "duty to report," even without the patient's direct approval."
Stephanie's Response
This is a thorough, well-rounded response. You show an understanding of important medical policies.
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7.
Discuss the pros and cons of legalizing marijuana. Would you ever prescribe or encourage the use of legal cannabis? Why or why not?
How to Answer
Another 'policy' based question, this query is looking for your opinion on a popular topic that is often controversial - the use of cannabis. Whether cannabis use is legal in your region or not, your response may vary. Overall, the panel is looking for a mature perspective and a balanced response. Show that you have reflected on the subject by providing a well researched and fair opinion.
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Anonymous Answer
"I believe patients/people have the right to make their own decisions, even in the context of marijuana. However, I believe these people should understand all of the risks and benefits of use if it were to be legalized. From a business perspective, since Colorado legalized marijuana it has seen an increase in real-estate growth and an 84% decrease in marijuana-related arrests allowing the local government to save on average $20 million in fees. However, Colorado also experienced a significant increase in related hospitalizations, underage use, and calls to poison control regarding marijuana use. Working in the ED I have interacted with several patients who use marijuana. From my experience people who inhale marijuana on a daily to weekly basis develop lung or withdrawal complications. However, through research, I have come to know of some good related to CBD use. UNC-Chapel Hill's own researchers have studied the positive effects of CBD on seizures, EEG abnormalities, and people who suffer from neurodevelopmental disorders. While there are apparent pros and cons to using marijuana/CBD, I myself have not done enough research to comfortably and confidently encourage the use of or prescribe cannabis."
Stephanie's Response
This is a thorough response, however, you may wish to focus on the medical aspects of legal cannabis (example: pain relief, etc) rather than the economic aspects.
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8.
Is it ethical for healthcare workers to go on strike? Why or why not?
How to Answer
When you build your response to this question, be prepared to support the pros and cons of each side. You know that the right to strike is a fundamental human right. You are also aware that when essential service providers such as healthcare workers go on strike, it must not be to the detriment of the health and safety or welfare of the public whom they serve.
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Anonymous Answer
"Striking for better working conditions is a human right, but it is more complicated in healthcare because it can affect patient care. Healthcare workers have a moral obligation to treat their patients but also have a right to fair working conditions, such as not overseeing too many patients at once or having shifts that are too long, both of which can lead to mistakes. Also, safety is an issue for healthcare workers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an ongoing issue about healthcare workers not having adequate access to PPE, which puts them at risk of contracting COVID-19. However, whatever the conditions justified for healthcare workers going on strike, their profession represents an altruistic duty to serve the community. Healthcare workers striking can affect timely care that can lead to preventable deaths. Negotiations should be made promptly in order to minimize disruptions in care as well as active understanding of the conditions that, if left unheard, can resort to workers striking. Healthcare workers choosing to strike should also understand that their actions can put a strain on the healthcare systems in place."
Rachelle's Response
Excellent work! Your answer shows a lot of thought, and it's great that you included the COVID-19 pandemic as a recent example to support your stance.
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9.
You have two patients who need a kidney transplant. One patient is an elderly physician with kidney failure; the other is a 20-year-old high school dropout brought in again for binge drinking. You have only one kidney. Who do you give the kidney to?
How to Answer
The panel would like evidence that you can communicate your approach when it comes to this challenging hypothetical scenario. Be sure to present your thoughts supporting both sides while showcasing your professionalism and strong problem-solving skills.
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Anonymous Answer
"As a physician, I expect I will have to make some tough decisions. I would first ensure that each patient receives dialysis for their kidney conditions before making a decision. After reviewing each patient’s medical history and performing tests, I would begin to make a decision. In this case, the patient I would choose for the kidney transplant would be the person who would tolerate the kidney better with less of a chance of transplant rejection. The person I chose to receive the kidney would be less likely to have complications and would have a greater chance of survival. If I choose the elderly physician for the transplant, it would be because the patient would be able to live a healthy life 10 to 15 years following the transplant. If I choose the high school dropout, it would have to be on the condition that the patient receives counseling for his or her binge drinking to ensure that this damaging health behavior would cease. My choice would be made on medical factors and not social or economic factors. I would do my best to remain objective and only consider each patient’s medical case history. The patient I didn't choose would remain on dialysis and the transplant list until a new kidney match was available."
Rachelle's Response
Awesome! It's great to see that you find the Mock Questions example answer helpful, yet you make it your own. Way to go!
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10.
Many pediatric associations recommended that male circumcisions no longer be routinely performed. Do you agree with this recommendation?
How to Answer
The practice of male circumcision began with rites and religion, making it an important topic to discuss today, as male circumcision has become standard practice even among those who do not hold the original religious or societal beliefs. Talk to the panel about the arguments against routine male circumcision, and what you understand members of the medical community to be saying. Next, discuss your thoughts and ideas from a medical point of view.
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11.
Your sister brings her new boyfriend home for the holidays. You recognize him as a patient you treated for herpes simplex type 2. What do you do?
How to Answer
Naturally, in this hypothetical situation, you would want to warn your sister about this particular individual. However, what you want to do and what you are legally allowed to do in this situation are two very different things. When you answer this question, you must consider privacy laws in your region. Show that you are capable of maintaining professionalism, even if the situation becomes somewhat personal.
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12.
After noticing bruises and burns on a patient, they disclose their spouse is physically abusing them. The patient begs you not to tell anyone. What do you do next?
How to Answer
Guidelines for physicians may vary, depending on your region; however, for much of the world, there are approaches in place for physicians who suspect their patients are victims of domestic violence. Physicians can play a significant role in identifying partner abuse. Talk to the panel about what you would do if you were in a situation where you became aware of domestic violence asked to keep it a secret. Be sure to show a professional understanding of your duties as a physician while still respecting patient confidentiality.
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13.
Discuss the Human Genome Project.
How to Answer
Policy-based MMI questions like this one mean to uncover your current level of knowledge on particular medical-related topics. Take some time to reflect on what you know regarding the Human Genome Project. Discuss the project, its pros, its cons, and any known issues related to the project.
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14.
Talk about physician-assisted death. When is this an appropriate solution?
How to Answer
The controversy surrounding physician-assisted death is not a new topic. Depending on your region, and the laws surrounding physician-assisted death, your answer will vary. Bring to light not only your professional thoughts around the issue but also touch on the primary points discussed in the medical community. Be sure to present a balanced response that holds empathy for those desiring a physician-assisted passing.
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Anonymous Answer
"Death is certainly a tough topic to discuss, especially when discussing someone else's life. The topic of physician-assisted death is certainly not a new topic within the medical community. There are advocates of physician-assisted death and those that oppose it. On the advocate side, patients with an incurable disease or suffering from a painful disease may look to the physician as a means that would provide comfort or ease to their lifestyle. Patients certainly have a right to autonomy, and if they are determined to be in a sane state of decision-making by health professionals, then they have a right to exercise their autonomy and chose how they would like to pass or live. We must respect a patient's dignity and right of choice, even if that means providing a safe and viable method of death. In the opposing position, many in the medical field would see physician-assisted death as going against an oath to serve the best health of patients. By doing so we alter the responsibilities and moral obligations of the physician. It also goes against ethical behavior. In my professional opinion, I believe we as a physician should respect the patients' autonomy, and provide any means of comfort to their care, even the promise of comfort and safety with death."
Stephanie's Response
This is an extremely challenging topic, and you do a good job of balancing different perspectives and sharing your own professional opinion about the importance of ethical behavior. This answer captures a great deal of thoughtfulness from you!
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15.
Which would you choose: To travel 1,000 years into the past or 1,000 years into the future? Choose your preference and discuss.
How to Answer
There is no wrong answer to this question. The panel will be looking for your ability to communicate your thoughts clearly and present your stance firmly and with conviction. Decide which situation you would prefer and give critical reasoning to support your preference. Depending on the amount of response time given, be prepared with a few specifics regarding the ways you would make a difference, medically speaking, during your hypothetical time travel.
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Anonymous Answer
"This is a tricky question. Both traveling 1000 years in the past or 1000 years in the future would quench my curiosity of those times. 1000 years ago in the past would situate me in a time in the past that was poorly recorded and introduce me to natural beauties that may have now been paved. However, there is also the risk of becoming a victim of the times, as I would be poorly adapted to a world with unsophisticated technology and extremely different world views, in addition to the communication barriers that would take place. 1000 years in the future would be more of a gamble in the sense of would I know what I'm getting. Would I be in a world that has overcome or been defeated by the issues we have today regarding climate change, resource scarcity, international conflict, and the threat of annihilation? Or perhaps would it those threats still exist, with progress made? Would this world be like the Canticle of Leibowitz, where a society has been reborn from the ashes of nuclear war, only to fall victim to the human issues that led the world to its initial annihilation? Ultimately, I believe I would go to the future, as there is a higher likelihood that communication and transportation would be easier. Plus, I'm interested to see how the world's technology and knowledge has expanded. Just make sure that I have the necessary equipment to survive and return to the present if necessary!"
Margarita's Response
This is a great answer! Nice intro, straight to the point, and because the interviewer asked you to discuss your answer, going beyond 3 sentences is necessary. A couple of your phrases can use some condensing and word changes, ie. your last sentence begins with "Plus", I would suggest changing that to "Furthermore".
"This is a tricky question. Both traveling 1000 years in the past or 1000 years in the future would quench my curiosity of those times. 1000 years ago, in the past would situate me in a time that was poorly recorded and introduce me to natural beauties that may have now been paved. However, there is also the risk of becoming a victim of the times, as I would be poorly adapted to a world with unsophisticated technology and extremely different world views, in addition to the communication barriers that would take place. 1000 years in the future would be more of a gamble in the sense of would I know what I'm getting. Would I be in a world that has overcome or been defeated by the issues we have today regarding climate change, resource scarcity, international conflict, and the threat of annihilation? Or perhaps would those threats still exist with the progress made? Would this world be like the Canticle of Leibowitz, where society has been reborn from the ashes of nuclear war, only to fall victim to the human issues that led the world to its initial annihilation? Ultimately, I believe I would go to the future, as there is a higher likelihood that communication and transportation would be easier. Furthermore, I'm interested to see how the world's technology and knowledge have expanded. Just make sure that I have the necessary equipment to survive and return to the present if necessary!"
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"I would travel 1,000 years in the future if I was able to bring back knowledge about advancements. In 1,000 years, there are likely to be significant advancements in the practice of medicine as well as treatments for diseases that currently have no treatment, such as terminal cancer or Alzheimer's. Being able to help a family member live longer so that he could see his grandchildren, a graduation, or his children's wedding would be meaningful."
Rachelle's Response
Moving 1,000 years into the future to gather information on medical advancements is a smart approach! It seems you are bringing in a personal story of someone in your family with Alzheimer's. If this is correct, you may want to give more detail regarding this relationship to draw an even stronger connection.
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16.
Which is more important to you; changing behavior to prevent disease or working harder to treat existing disease?
How to Answer
Whether its behavior change or disease prevention, the panel wants to see where you would choose to focus the majority of your efforts. Express your preference clearly, and support your reasoning while also giving the nod to the opposing side.
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Anonymous Answer
"Although I believe behavior modifications, such as diet and exercise, are important to maintaining health, I understand that change is hard. Habits can become ingrained over time, and it takes a while to break those bad habits. Also, factors in a patient's life can impact his or her ability to become healthy. For instance, my brother who works the night shift at the hospital is often busy and tired leading him to make bad food choices. Based on the patient's circumstance, I would first treat their existing disease with medications and suggest gradual behavioral changes. I would recommend small changes like adding a few minutes of exercise each day or adding fruits and vegetables to meals. This may make it more likely for patients to adopt lifestyle changes. One office visit will not result in a revolutionary change, but neither will eating one fast food meal suddenly lead to bad health."
Rachelle's Response
You bring a thoughtful perspective to this scenario, and it's a great touch to add in the example of your brother to support your stance.
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17.
Talk to me about one crucial healthcare issue that is unique to your region.
How to Answer
First, you need to decipher if 'your region' is referring to the place you call home, or the area in which you will be attending medical school. Once you decide on this factor, be sure to address your direction in your response. Take the time to think about a crucial healthcare issue in your region of choice. Put effort into finding an answer that will be unique to you, including statistics and an action plan. Choosing an 'easy' path may mean that your solution is similar to other candidates, so beware of falling into this trap.
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18.
One of your patients asks for a doctors' note to excuse them from a work conference. You do not see any symptoms of illness. Talk to the patient about your decision to provide or not provide them with a doctors' note.
How to Answer
This question is a role-play opportunity or 'acting' question. For acting questions, a panel of interviewers, or perhaps even an actor, will be waiting in the interview room, and you must approach the situation as you would in real life. In this scenario, you must show professionalism, empathy, and compassion.
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Anonymous Answer
"In this situation, a conflict exists between satisfying my patient's request and being honest and refusing to do so. Satisfying my patient's request would ensure my patient is able to be excused from work and avoid reprimand, and would not damage my relationship with the pt. Refusing to meet the patient's request, on the other hand, would likely damage my relationship."
Margarita's Response
This question asks you to describe what your conversation would be with the patient directly. Your answer is more of your inner thoughts.
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"In a soft-spoken tone: Mr./Mrs. Patient, I appreciate you coming to me regarding advice or medical assistance. I am always here for my patients and aspire to be the first line of assistance when there is a medical complication or crisis, even in social matters. With that being said, I cannot grant you an excuse note for the sole reason of skipping a work conference. I cannot morally or justifyingly provide an excuse when there is no medical involvement. I suggest you speak with your company about the conference and why you may not wish to attend. I do not know what social or outside matters you may be facing, but my advice is to be straightforward and honest with your company. Perhaps they will be willing to work with you on the matter and come to a better solution."
Stephanie's Response
Your response shows a strong ethical commitment. You clearly understand that writing a doctor's note to excuse your patient from a work conference would be irresponsible on your part, given the lack of symptoms, but you still treat your patient in a compassionate manner that holds them accountable while also supporting them in finding solutions. You go above and beyond for this patient!
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19.
How do you feel about stem cell research using fetal tissue?
How to Answer
Ethical based questions require you to look at an issue in a multi-faceted way. The panel of interviewers wants to see that you have an understanding of all sides, whether or not you agree with them. State your opinion on the topic, while also incorporating facts where you can. This approach shows that you have thoughtfully considered all sides of a controversial issue.
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20.
What experiences and qualities lead you to believe that you will be an excellent physician?
How to Answer
Personal questions like this one do require some reflection and the ability to speak about yourself in a way that showcases your strengths but still comes across as humble. Think about why you want to be a physician or what led you to this particular career path. When you answer, be honest while making a connection between your top qualities, life experiences, and this profession. Talk about your values and how these align with the vision of the school for which you are applying.
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Anonymous Answer
"I will make an excellent physician because I am empathetic, a committed person, and persistent. Volunteering in hospice care exposed me to the emotional suffering of others. I saw one patient who was cheerful and always had a smile when we were playing bingo but saw how quickly that would change when her disease progressed. She became no longer interested in activities and became unable to take care of herself. Even so, her positivity influenced me and I wanted to be there for her by continuing to visit and try my best to make her feel less alone. I was committed to my students while I was a graduate teaching assistant. I made sure that my students could contact me freely if they had issues with the lab course. I was surprised when one of my students at the end of the semester thanked me for my responsiveness as maybe other teaching assistants were not. I am also committed to improving myself. I know my verbal communication skills need improvement. I have worked on this by putting myself into uncomfortable situations, such as being a teaching assistant. Initially, I was nervous and was unable to get out what I wanted to say. Through preparation, I became more effective in conveying information to my students. I continue to work on my communication by volunteering at the food bank and interacting with people from different backgrounds. During my graduate research, I ran into some struggles with my experiments. I would try to find out what went wrong by modifying or repeating the experiments. When I could not figure it out, I would ask someone more experienced, such as a Ph.D. student in my lab or my professor. Similarly, as a physician, I would work tirelessly for my patients, whatever the challenge is, as well as care for them and be a trusted partner in managing their health."
Rachelle's Response
Excellent job with this response! The details you provide and the storytelling are a wonderful touch. This answer does more than tell the interviewer why you will be an excellent physician; it also shows the interviewer your skills in action. Good work!
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"I have, thankfully, had excellent mentors and role models in my life such as my Grandfather and Dr. Graeub who have taught me that being a compassionate, respectful, and humble person will help me to connect with people and keep from making impulsive decisions that may be clouded by arrogance. My grandfather always sought to act and be involved in community service, putting others before himself. Observing him helped me to realize that I should treat all persons with equal respect, even towards those who may act with aggression, no matter the circumstances. Working in the ED I have observed people who have lost health insurance, due to financial or immigration constraints, suffering from homelessness, or cannot establish a primary care physician. Interactions with these patients are generally very tense, due to patients feeling that the providers do not understand their situation. I have observed Dr. Graeub tend to every patient with the utmost respect and do so in a humble manner, never putting himself above a patient but on an equal level. His quote of "I am just the emergency physician" reminds me to always treat others greater than myself, and to always listen and be open to the opinions/concerns of others. Being a physician it is important to act in the best interest of others. I believe the experiences I have had and the qualities of compassion, respect, and humility I have obtained from them will help me be an excellent physician."
Stephanie's Response
Excellent response--it sounds like you've had some wonderful role models in your life!
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21.
Hippocrates said, 'Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.' What does this quote mean to you as you pursue a career in healthcare?
How to Answer
Since this question is surrounding your opinion of a well-known quote, there will not necessarily be a right or wrong answer. What is most important when approaching this question is that you show insight and also some understanding of who Hippocrates was, as he is a significant figure in the history of medicine. Show that you have your unique perspective and an ability to take an age-old quote and give it meaning in today's context.
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22.
As a physician, do you feel a responsibility to be a healthy role model for your patients, or is your medical training and knowledge more than enough when it comes to counseling your patients on lifestyle changes?
How to Answer
The way that you answer this question will give the panel an idea of how involved you are in your health, and how you believe your approach to health directly impacts the health of your patients. Many healthcare professionals feel that passing on their knowledge to patients is enough where others think you must 'practice what you preach.' Be prepared to defend your stance.
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23.
If an alternative treatment existed for a terminal illness, would you recommend it to a patient, even if there were no scientific evidence to support its efficacy?
How to Answer
Opinions drastically vary when it comes to the way we approach traditional and 'alternative' therapies. Some medical professionals feel that the two therapeutic approaches can work hand-in-hand, while others believe that alternative therapies can be dangerous and do not hold enough scientific merit. The panel wants to know where you would stand when it comes to treatments that are not yet supported by medical evidence. How would you approach this situation?
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24.
You witness a group of male colleagues speaking inappropriately about a female colleague. What do you do?
How to Answer
In the 'Me Too' era and amidst other equality movements, the panel wants to see how you would approach a workplace situation that you know is inappropriate. Harassment is troubling, in any circumstance. Still, people often have trouble reporting this type of behavior. Talk about your approach and what you would say to stop this type of situation.
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1 Community Answer
Anonymous interview answers with our interview experts feedback
Anonymous Answer
"As a fellow male, I have a responsibility and moral obligation to remind others about proper speech and treatment in the workplace/school, especially when it comes to the matter of a colleague from the other sex. I would approach the male colleagues cautiously but confidently, so as to not anger or provoke them and ask what the matter is they are discussing. Once I have discerned/confirmed the topic(s) these males are speaking about, I would begin to try and progressively/slowly, in an open and non-threatful manner, remind them of our roles in the workplace, and the need for an appropriate mentality/attitude. If their actions continue to persist I would seek to have the appropriate authority figures involved. It is important to have a respectful mentality and attitude in the environment in which we work or study together."
Stephanie's Response
Your answer shows thoughtfulness, sensitivity, and respect for others. It sounds like any company would be lucky to have you!
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25.
Pharmaceutical companies largely influence the medical profession through lobbying. What do you believe is the impact?
How to Answer
Lobbying is 'an attempt by individuals or private interest groups to influence the decisions of another group.' Pharmaceutical lobbying is when pharmaceutical drug companies work to have the medical industry, medical professionals, or politicians act in favor of the pharmaceutical industry and its products. According to CNN Health, one well-known pharma lobbying group spent around $27.5 million on lobbying activities in one year alone. Be prepared to speak about lobbying and the impact it has on the medical industry.
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26.
An underage patient asks you for a birth control prescription but asks that you not tell her parents. What do you do?
How to Answer
The way you approach this question will vary, depending on the region where you are interviewing or practicing medicine. You will want to consider privacy laws and the age of consent. Show that you would ask the right questions and take the time to lay down proper groundwork before prescribing anything to your patient. For instance, it would be essential to find out why your patient wants birth control and why she does not want to tell her parents.
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27.
What would you do if your mother decided to rely only on alternative medicine to treat a critical illness?
How to Answer
The way you approach a patient about alternative medical therapies, and the way you would approach your parent may be the same - or entirely different. Whatever your thoughts on alternative treatments, the panel wants to see that you have an educated approach versus a biased opinion. Show that you can be collaborative without dropping your scientific ways but also remaining open to new ideas.
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28.
An emergency room patient will die without a blood transfusion. The patients' medical records state refusal of blood transfusions due to religious reasons. What do you decide to do?
How to Answer
Expressed consent is a fundamental issue in the medical community. The panel wants to see that you are capable of critical thinking, making sound medical decisions, while also displaying empathy and respect for the beliefs of your patients. Show that you can think in a multi-faceted, fair manner that respects all groups.
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1 Community Answer
Anonymous interview answers with our interview experts feedback
Anonymous Answer
"Being a physician, I would always strive to take my patient's best interests as they have a right to make their own choices. If the patient is awake and determined to be in a mental state capable of making decisions on their own I would consult the patient regarding this matter. I would ensure to discuss with the patient that they completely understand the risks and consequences of refusing a blood transfusion. I would discuss possible alternatives for treatment, but again stress the importance of the risk of death is still present if the patient does not receive the blood transfusion. If the patient presents unconscious and unable to make immediate decisions, I would need to consult a higher authority, ethical committee, or fellow attendees on the matter to try and devise an avenue of treatment that would benefit the patient, and hopefully, still, respect the patient's medical decisions."
Stephanie's Response
You provide a well-rounded, ethical response that takes all aspects of this critical issue into consideration.
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29.
In 2019, the Reproductive Health Act expanded abortion rights. What were these changes, and how do you feel about them?
How to Answer
The Reproductive Health Act, enacted in 2019, expanded abortion rights and eliminated several restrictions on abortion in the state of New York. You may not be from New York, so depending on your region, you will personalize this answer for your specific MMI situation. The takeaway from this question will be to show that you are in-the-know when it comes to female reproductive rights and approaches to abortion in the area where you live, where you desire to attend medical school, and where you plan to practice medicine.
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30.
Share your thoughts on gender selection and the topic of family balancing in the in vetro fertilization process.
How to Answer
Rather than only giving your opinion on gender selection for family balancing, be sure to provide a reference to any medical journals and reputable texts on the topic. Your response will vary based on critical factors such as the region where you are attending medical school, and where you will practice medicine.
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