MMI QBank
25 practice questions in this category. Every question includes an expandable + Model answer with framework-guided guidance. Browse the full question bank.
Communication
Communication is a core competency assessed in both traditional and MMI interviews. These questions evaluate your ability to explain information clearly, listen actively, adapt your communication style, and build rapport.
Describe a time you communicated complex information simply.+ Model answer
Framework: STARR · EMP
Analogies, chunking, checking understanding. Audience-appropriate language. Reflection: simplifying without dumbing down — key clinical skill.
How would you explain a diagnosis to a patient?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Explore prior knowledge. What it is, what it means for them, next steps. Plain language, teach-back. Invite questions and written summary.
How would you deliver bad news?+ Model answer
Framework: SPIKES
SPIKES step by step. Warning shot, pause, empathy, plan. Never on a corridor. Arrange support person if wanted.
How would you communicate risks and benefits?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Balanced, numerical where helpful, personalised to patient values. Check understanding. Shared decision-making — Partner on acceptable risk.
Describe a communication breakdown.+ Model answer
Framework: STARR
What went wrong — assumption, jargon, timing. Action to repair. Reflection: systems to prevent repeat (read-back, confirmation).
How would you deal with a patient who doesn't understand you?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Slow down, simplify, visual aids, interpreter, teach-back. Explore barriers — hearing, literacy, anxiety. Never blame the patient.
How would you communicate with a non-native speaker?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Professional interpreter, short sentences, avoid idioms, confirm understanding both ways. Respect cultural communication norms.
How would you handle disagreement with a colleague?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP · SBAR
Private, factual, patient-focused. SBAR if clinical — situation, background, assessment, recommendation. Escalate if unresolved and safety at stake.
How would you explain medical uncertainty?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Honesty builds trust. Explain what is known, unknown, and plan to find out. Avoid false certainty. Partner on monitoring and follow-up.
Describe a time listening was important.+ Model answer
Framework: STARR · EMP
Changed outcome because you heard something others missed. Reflection: listening prevents errors and builds rapport.
How would you handle a demanding patient?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Explore needs behind demands. Set boundaries calmly. Partner where reasonable; escalate abuse. Document agreements.
How do you ensure clarity in communication?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Structure messages, avoid jargon, summarise, teach-back, written backup. One issue at a time in stressful moments.
How would you communicate in a multidisciplinary team?+ Model answer
Framework: SBAR · EMP
Respect roles, concise SBAR handovers, closed-loop communication. Challenge respectfully. Shared mental model of patient goals.
How would you adapt communication for different patients?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Age, cognition, culture, literacy, emotion — adjust pace and style. Ask preferences. Same content, flexible delivery.
Describe a time you persuaded someone.+ Model answer
Framework: STARR · EMP
Ethical persuasion — evidence, empathy, shared goals. Not manipulation. Result and reflection on respecting autonomy.
How would you communicate under pressure?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP · SBAR
Short clear sentences, prioritise critical information, confirm receipt. SBAR for handover. Debrief after crisis.
How would you respond to misinformation from a patient?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Explore source without ridicule. Mirror concern, provide evidence gently, Partner on trusted resources. Autonomy — informed choice after correction.
How would you handle sensitive information?+ Model answer
Framework: ETHICS · EMP
Need-to-know, secure records, private setting. Consent before sharing. Explain limits of confidentiality upfront when required.
How would you manage interruptions during communication?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Protect key moments — bad news, consent — by minimising interruptions. If interrupted, return and summarise. Apologise for disruption.
How do you check patient understanding?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Teach-back, open questions, observe confusion. Adjust and repeat. Document understanding and plan.
Describe a time you resolved misunderstanding.+ Model answer
Framework: STARR · EMP
Identified miscommunication early, clarified calmly, confirmed agreement. Reflection: assumptions cause most misunderstandings.
How would you approach shared decision-making?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Present options with evidence, explore values, recommend if asked, respect informed choice. Document decision process.
How do you communicate empathy?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Verbal reflection of feelings, tone, posture, time. "I can see this is hard." Actions matching words — follow-up, consistency.
How would you explain uncertainty in medicine?+ Model answer
Framework: EMP
Normalise uncertainty honestly. Explain differential thinking and safety-netting. Partner on when to return or seek help.
How do you prioritise honesty in communication?+ Model answer
Framework: ETHICS · EMP
Truth with compassion — SPIKES when needed. No false reassurance. Admit limits: "I don't know yet, but here's our plan." Trust depends on honesty.