Title: An effective simulation centre – Getting the design right

Biography:

Ross Horley has been involved in the development and deployment of simulation-based training for medical and surgical skills for over 19 years. A pioneer in many areas, he has been involved in the design of over 30 advanced clinical skills and simulation training facilities around the world, including the Royal College of Surgeons of England, Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, the National Health Service in the UK, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Third Military Medical University Hospital Chongqing and SingHealth to name a few. He has developed award-winning virtual reality simulators for medical procedures and created an innovative process of training course development, which forms the basis of benchmarking skills for ongoing accreditation. He is an Adjunct Senior Lecturer for the School of Medicine in the University of Notre Dame, Australia, and a contributing author for an Oxford University Press-published book, “Manual of Simulation in Healthcare” first and second editions.

Abstract

With the increase in the use of simulation as a viable training technology there is considerable need to provide areas where simulation can be effectively and efficiently deployed. The level of complexity required for those spaces for the utilization of various simulators varies greatly from a total immersive environment to just a desk. A considerable effort is required in the planning of simulator based training areas to maximize the benefits of the technology. Flexibility is one of the key criteria as well as a high degree of future proofing. In many cases simulation equipment and associated systems are shoehorned into existing areas therefore the need for creative design and a detailed understanding of simulation based training is more critical. More challenges exist with low budgets, non recurring funding. There are some basic design rules which are very applicable in meeting the challenges as well as technological solutions. The process of identifying what technology and design s works and what wont is based on a needs analysis with the outcomes weighted against financial, technological and educational criteria. The process is not just area design but a multifaceted approach.