Streaming Virtual Reality: An Innovative Approach to Distance Healthcare Simulation

Effective healthcare simulation training typically involves in-person instruction at a hospital or simulation center where specialists utilize both high- and low-fidelity equipment to simulate medical tasks. Many healthcare facilities do not have the resources or specialists for high-fidelity simulation training locally, so travel is often necessary to attend infrequent training events hosted at distant hospitals, simulation centers, or conferences. Medical educators have called for distance simulation experiences to address the need for training when resources are not locally available. Educators have previously utilized technological solutions for distance simulation, such as videoconferencing, in which an expert is not in the same physical location as a trainee; however, previous technology was lacking for healthcare training needs. To address the need for distance simulation experiences, we describe a novel technology that streams live 3D video in virtual reality (VR), such that healthcare professionals feel as if they are in the same room from any location. By utilizing novel VR technology, distance simulation training experiences can be created that feel immersive and employ traditional teaching strategies, such as synchronous instruction and feedback from an expert.