Lancaster Medicine Interview

Why Lancaster, given how small the cohort is?

Frame the small cohort as a positive — tight-knit teaching, individual attention, strong peer support. Reference the spiral curriculum and North West placements specifically.

Tell us about something outside academics that has shaped you.

A genuine, specific story. Avoid the showcase-of-achievements answer. Focus on insight and growth.

Explain a complex idea you understand well to a 10-year-old.

Pick something you actually know. Use analogies. Check understanding by asking questions back.

A patient refuses life-saving treatment. They appear to have capacity. What do you do?

Capacity is decision-specific. If they have capacity and refuse, you must respect it. Explore why — ensure they understand the consequences. Document carefully.

Your friend is studying for an important exam and is becoming very anxious. Speak with them.

Active listening first, no quick fixes. Acknowledge feelings, ask what would help, signpost support resources gently.

Here is a table of GP appointment waiting times by region. What do you observe?

Describe trends, identify outliers, propose possible causes (workforce distribution, rural access, deprivation). Be cautious about correlation vs causation.

Tell me about a time you led a team.

STAR-style. Focus on how you brought others with you, not just what you achieved.

Should patients in remote areas receive the same access to specialist care as those in cities?

Engage with equity, geography, telemedicine, and the practical realities. Acknowledge trade-offs rather than handing down absolutes.

What worries you most about studying medicine here?

Honest concern + how you will manage it. Workload, distance from home, transition to clinical years.

Tell me about a topic from your A-Levels that genuinely fascinated you.

Specifics. Why it interested you, what you read beyond the syllabus, where it might link to medicine.

You need to tell a classmate they have not been selected for a project they really wanted. Break the news.

Warning shot, clear delivery, acknowledge feelings, offer next steps. Don't bury the message in fluff.

What does the term "patient-centred care" mean to you?

Move beyond textbook phrasing. Show you understand it means listening, shared decision-making, and treating the person not the disease.

A medical student is posting photos of patients on social media with names blurred. Is this acceptable?

No. Confidentiality goes beyond names — context, location, dates can identify patients. Reference GMC social media guidance.

Describe a time you disagreed with someone and how you handled it.

Specific example. Show that you can hold a position with respect and adapt when persuaded.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Honest reflection. Some uncertainty is fine — show insight into the realities of medical training (foundation, specialty choice).