Reality Without Risk
BWH, continuing to lead the nation in patient safety initiatives, recently became a study site for a pilot project by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) using the SimSuite Center. This state-of-the-art simulation center for interventional cardiology procedures provided BWH physicians and staff with a “reality without risk” approach to practicing minimally invasive procedures to treat heart disease.
This pilot project was designed to test the ability of the simulator to be used as an ABIM evaluation tool to assess cognitive and procedural skills in performing coronary angioplasty procedures. Over a four day period, BWH second-year cardiology and interventional cardiology fellows participated in six test cases, each emphasizing a different technical aspect of the procedure complete with a smart mannequin that responded similarly to a real patient. “The answers were standardized to allow testing of various skill levels and procedural abilities,” said Jeffery J. Popma, MD, director of Interventional Cardiology at BWH.
Upon entering a SimSuite center, most physicians immediately feel as though they are in an actual procedure room. The SimSuite center also serves as an education and training center. Each “case” includes a presentation of patient history, a required diagnosis, an opportunity for self-assessment, as well as post-procedure planning.
Popma said that ultimately the ABIM is considering the addition of simulated testing to its maintenance of certification examination. “The simulator's ability to test a number of different skill sets is remarkable,” he said.
“We are continually researching and developing new tools and approaches to improve the clinical relevance and reliability of certification and maintenance of certification,” explained Christine Cassel, MD, president of the ABIM. “Simulation offers exciting opportunities for the board, physicians, and ultimately the patients we serve.”