In looking for ways to support the improvement of healthcare delivery and outcomes in South Georgia, the Center for Rural Prosperity and Innovation plans to evaluate the development of a regional medical education simulation and training center.
Their goal is to build academic and clinical partnerships across the southern part of the state that will enhance learning opportunities for students and providers, while at the same time, serve as a focal point and catalyst for the development, understanding and advancement of simulation and related technologies throughout the region.
“Building capacity for health care simulation and training will aid in the development of the region’s health professions workforce while stimulating local economies,” said David Bridges, director of the center.
Officials said the simulation centers are designed to provide clinicians and students more realistic educational experiences. Reports from the Center for Rural Prosperity state that simulated training has a direct and immediate impact on patient safety and quality in clinical facilities and is an integral part of training students and residents. The growth in technology means simulating realistic experiences in a range of scenarios, from simple blood draws to complicated cases.
They went on to explain that this type simulation allows all medical professionals to maintain confidence in skills by replicating scenarios in a no-harm situation– which becomes even more critical in a rural region like southwest Georgia, where timely treatment and efficiency can be influenced by proximity to the nearest hospital and trauma center.
Consultants with Tripp Umbach will work collaboratively with the center to conduct the studies and will report their findings in September.
The Center for Rural Prosperity is housed at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton.
