What is an example of a potential writing task in the OET?

In the Occupational English Test (OET), candidates are assessed on their ability to communicate effectively in writing in a healthcare context. One of the key tasks candidates may encounter is writing a referral letter for a patient requiring specialist treatment.

This type of writing task is particularly relevant because it reflects a common scenario in healthcare where a primary care professional needs to refer a patient to a specialist for further evaluation or treatment. The referral letter must clearly communicate the patient's medical history, presenting issues, and the reason for the referral, ensuring the receiving specialist has all necessary information to provide appropriate care.

While writing a prescription, drafting a patient health record, or creating a discharge summary are all important tasks in healthcare documentation, they do not align as directly with the specific skill of referral writing that the OET aims to evaluate. The focus on referral letters assesses not only the medical knowledge but also the ability to use clear, professional language suited to a specific audience in healthcare. This makes it a crucial example of a potential writing task in the OET.