The Central Simulation Committee (CSC): a model for centralization and standardization of simulation-based medical education in the U.S. Army healthcare system

Mil Med. 2012 Jul;177(7):829-35. doi: 10.7205/milmed-d-12-00065.

Abstract

In this report, we describe the organizational framework, operations and current status of the Central Simulation Committee (CSC). The CSC was established in 2007 with the goals of standardizing simulation-based training in Army graduate medical education programs, assisting in redeployment training of physicians returning from war, and improving patient safety within the Army Medical Department. Presently, the CSC oversees 10 Simulation Centers, controls over 21,000 sq ft of simulation center space, and provides specialty-specific training in 14 medical specialties. In the past 2 years, CSC Simulation Centers have trained over 50,000 Army medical students, residents, physician assistants, nurses, Soldiers and DoD civilian medical personnel. We hope this report provides simulation educators within the military, and our civilian simulation colleagues, with insight into the workings of our organization and provides an example of centralized support and oversight of simulation-based medical education.

MeSH terms

  • Computer Simulation / standards
  • Education, Medical, Graduate / methods
  • Education, Medical, Graduate / organization & administration*
  • Education, Medical, Graduate / standards
  • Education, Nursing, Graduate / methods
  • Education, Nursing, Graduate / organization & administration*
  • Education, Nursing, Graduate / standards
  • Health Facility Administration
  • Humans
  • Military Facilities
  • Military Medicine / education*
  • Military Medicine / organization & administration*
  • Military Personnel / education*
  • Quality Improvement