What is an MMI role play station?
MMI role play stations place you in a realistic conversation with an actor (patient, family member, or colleague) to assess your ability to listen, respond empathetically, and handle pressure. Scenarios typically last 5-7 minutes, with time to read a prompt beforehand!
Why do MMI (interviewers) use role play?
Role play evaluates how you perform in unpredictable, emotionally challenging situations - like delivering bad news or managing conflicts. It’s not about memorising answers - it’s about demonstrating communication, empathy, and professionalism in real time.
Common MMI role play scenarios
Breaking bad news: e.g., a doctor informing a patient of a complication
Explaining a mistake: e.g., forgetting to send lab results to a colleague
Confronting a peer: e.g., noticing a colleague’s alcohol use before surgery
Personal scenarios: e.g., apologising for breaking a sentimental item
Emotional support: e.g., comforting an anxious friend or patient
How to approach MMI role play?
Clarify your role: Understand whether you’re speaking as a doctor, friend, or student
Greet and set tone: Smile, introduce yourself, and briefly summarise the scenario to confirm context
Show empathy: Use phrases like “I’m sorry to hear that” and validate emotions (“I can see this is difficult”)
Respond actively: Listen carefully, nod, and reflect back to show understanding
Use frameworks:
SPIKES for breaking bad news: Setting, Perception, Information, Emotions, Strategy
ICE for empathetic queries: Ideas, Concerns, Expectations
Handle conflict calmly: Maintain professionalism, de-escalate tension, and seek a constructive resolution
Close politely: Ask if there’s anything else they want to share and thank the actor and assessor
Why Practice makes perfect for MMI role play?
MMI Role Play isn’t about acting - it's about authentic connection and empathy.
Practise with our MMI Course where we will have multiple role play stations to put you through your paces. At home, practice with friends or tutors acting as patients. Use timed mocks, record your responses, review body language, tone, and phrasing. The more realistic your run-throughs, the more natural you’ll feel under pressure.
MMI Station Role Play Simulation Example.
FAQs: What is a good example of MMI role play?
A strong example: delivering news of an accidental medical mistake clearly and empathetically using SPIKES - Setting context, informing gently, pausing, responding to emotions, and outlining next steps.
What are the four types of MMI role play?
MMI Role Play you'll typically encounter:
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Breaking bad news
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Explaining a mistake
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Conflict resolution
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Emotional support scenarios