IMSH Recap from Gami Barzkar 
A Beverlee Anderson Scholarship Recipient

I am a Baylor pre-medical student who was lucky enough to be introduced into the world of simulation by my mentor Michael Hofkamp, MD last summer. Working with Dr. Hofkamp gave me a glimpse into simulation, but by attending IMSH, I was exposed to the vast usage of simulation and the amazing technology available for conducting simulation. Some of the important things I took away from the IMSH meeting were the connections that I made and the advice I was able to take away from those who are veteran simulation researchers. After attending IMSH, I am a firm believer that simulation is a key factor in the future of medical training and patient safety.

 The highlight of my first day was definitely the making connections portion of the meeting. I really valued being able to interact with the different simulators from the different vendors, getting to learn about the new technology, and learning new things about the old simulators. I was able to participate in simulations of the most recent Noelle giving birth, a noninvasive procedure, ultra sound and many more. It was so exciting being able to try this new technology that could help save a patient’s life someday. While participating in the simulations, I was also able to interact with people of different disciplines and get their perspective on simulation. Doctors shared with me the many ways simulation has influenced their practice of medicine and their training of residents. Engineers explained the different mechanisms and the reasons that went into developing the different simulators. I felt that these interactions really helped me understand simulation better and how we can use the simulators to be more effective.

The sessions I attended helped enable me to develop ideas about new research and ways to polish our old ways of research and get the best results possible form simulation sessions. A reoccurring theme in most of the sessions was incorporation of established guidelines, better communication, and reduction of human factors.  One of my most memorable sessions was solely about the need to develop simulation for refinement of skill based on the already existing skill level. Many other great ideas such as switching of roles during simulation to gain perspective during a situation were simple thoughts that never cross my minds, but can really help improve simulation sessions. I was really grateful to be able to experience and learn from IMSH and hope to incorporate those lessons into my research now and hopefully as a care provider in the future.