OET Writing Samples for Doctors: Expert Guidance

Introduction to OET Writing for Doctors

The Occupational English Test (OET) is a QUELSI-accredited, sector-specific English language proficiency test for healthcare professionals, including doctors. A key component of the OET is the Writing Task, which assesses a doctor's ability to write effectively in a professional context. This article provides comprehensive OET Writing samples for doctors, along with expert tips to enhance your writing skills.

Understanding the OET Writing Task for Doctors

The OET Writing Task for doctors involves writing a consultation letter based on a scenario provided in the question stem. The letter should be addressed to a recipient (often another healthcare professional) and must include:

• Patient's Details: Name, age, and relevant medical history.

• Chief Complaint: The primary reason for the patient's visit.

• History of Presenting Illness (HPI): Detailed description of the complaint.

• Past Medical History (PMH): Relevant past illnesses or surgeries.

• Examination Findings: Observations from the physical examination.

• Diagnosis: Your conclusion based on the information.

• Treatment Plan: Proposed management strategy.

• Conclusion/Next Steps: Summary and future actions.

Sample OET Writing Task for Doctors

Scenario

Patient Details: Mrs. Smith, 45 years, known case of hypertension.

Scenario Description: Mrs. Smith presents with a 2-day history of worsening shortness of breath>Data and dizziness. She reports no chest pain but mentions increased coughing productive of clear sputum.

Sample Response

[Dear Dr. Lee,]

Re: Mrs. Smith - Consultation for Respiratory Symptoms

I am writing to refer Mrs. Smith, a 45-year-old known hypertensive patient, who presented to our clinic with a 2-day history of worsening shortness of breath and dizziness. She denied any chest pain but reported an increase in cough productive of clear sputum.

History of Presenting Illness: The symptoms escalated over the past 48 hours, with the patient experiencing significant distress during exertion. She has been compliant with her antihypertensive medication.

Past Medical History: Hypertension (diagnosed 2010), no previous respiratory conditions.

Examination Findings:moved to the next line due to line length \nOxygen saturation was 92% on room air, lungs were clear on auscultation, but there was mild bilateral pitting edema.

Diagnosis: Given the clinical presentation and the absence of chest pain or fever, the likely diagnosis is heart failure exacerbation, possibly due to non-compliance with diuretics (though patient claims compliance).

Treatment Plan: I have initiated oxygen therapy to maintain saturation >95%, increased the dose of her diuretic, and prescribed a short course of diuretics to manage edema. Scheduled a follow-up in 3 days to reassess.

Conclusion/Next Steps: Please monitor her response to the adjusted treatment. Consider echocardiography if there's no improvement.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

Key Points from the Sample

• Structure: Follows a logical sequence from introduction to next steps.

• Clarity: Uses clear, concise language suitable for a medical professional.

• Relevance: Only includes information pertinent to the case.

Tips for Improving Your OET Writing

1. Understand the Scenario Thoroughly

• Read the question stem carefully to identify the recipient, patient's details, and the exact information required.

2. Use Appropriate Medical Terminology

• Ensure your vocabulary is accurate and commonly used in medical practice.

3. Practice with Timed Writing Sessions

• Allocate the exact test time (45 minutes) to practice writing full responses.

4. Get Feedback

• Submit your samples to tutors or peers for constructive criticism.

Conclusion

Mastering the OET Writing Task for doctors requires a deep understanding of the task format, diligent practice with authentic samples, and a focus on clarity and professionalism in your writing. By following the guidelines and practicing with the sample provided, you will significantly enhance your chances of achieving the desired band score.