LEARNING BY SIMULATION

Abstract

The future appears bright for the use of simulation in medical education. Medical, nursing, and allied healthcare students trained through simulation have opportunities to practice hands on techniques, teamwork, and communication through trial and error in a safe environment before working with live patients. The cost of high-fidelity simulation will continue to make its use prohibitive and challenging for some programs though the use of low-fidelity simulation, standardized patients, and role-playing continues to have measureable qualitative value. Cost center sharing is one way for programs on a tight budget who desire high-fidelity simulation to access this valuable skills-building, outcome-improving medical education adjunct tool.