Senior citizens from the Mid North Coast are helping Charles Sturt University (CSU) paramedic students enhance their clinical assessment skills. The volunteer 'patients' are examined by students studying the Bachelor of Clinic Practice (Paramedic) at CSU in Port Macquarie. CSU paramedic lecturer Ms Tania Johnston said, "Since last year I have been inviting community volunteers to assist our paramedic students practice and develop the skills they learn in class. Most recently we had five senior citizens come in to act as 'patients', to be interviewed and assessed by second-year students. We do it in the style of 'speed dating', whereby the students spend approximately 15-20 minutes with each volunteer before moving to the next one. It serves to build student confidence in communicating with elderly people, as well as practicing basic assessment techniques. Our 'patients' are keen to provide feedback and give the students an idea of what they will face when they get out into the real world of paramedic practice." Another session is planned on campus in Port Macquarie on Wednesday 6 May with approximately seven volunteers from the local Probus Club and University of the Third Age. In an additional arrangement with staff at the Bethany Aged Care Nursing Home, third-year CSU paramedic students will visit on Tuesday 28 April to practice their cardiac assessment and history-taking skills with residents. "The community of Port Macquarie has been exceptionally engaged with the University and we appreciate the high level of support from our seniors groups," said Ms Johnston.