Table 2 Illustrative quotes favouring and against inclusion

Favouring:

○ “In most cases body language would seem to indicate that examiner and PP scores roughly accord, but in initial patient exam followed by detailed Q + A stations, patient are often forgotten about. If, as seems likely, session times are to be extended PPs require some more input” PP28, male aged 70-79

○ “If they cannot treat us with dignity and professionalism at this stage it is critical that they do not progress further. More emphasis on this in year 4 should arm them with the knowledge of how vitally important the patient perspective is” PP37, male aged 60-69

○ “No matter how good the medical student is academically, at some point they will have to deal with the general public, ie patients. It is important that they have good ‘people skills’ therefore these skills should be tested and marked” PP46, male aged 60-69

Against:

○ “I do not consider myself qualified to undertake such a task” PP15, male aged 70-79

○ “Many PPs have different views and would be concerned that for such an important exam our views may not be consistent” PP29, female aged 60-69

○ “While I feel a good “bedside manner” is very important, I personally feel medical knowledge is of utmost importance in any consultation between patient and doctor” PP25, female aged 60-69

○ “… when nerves set in candidates marks can be allotted unfairly” PP19, male aged 60-69