The national SimVET Center launches in Orlando

Imagine a place where experts from around the nation come together to meticulously craft, test and refine the health care solutions of the future. This place exists, and it’s the National Simulation Validation, Evaluation, and Testing Center, better known as the National SimVET Center.

The Simulation Learning, Evaluation, Assessment, and Research Network (SimLEARN) relaunched its simulation and training facility in September 2023 with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The updates to the National SimVET Center are about more than just rebranding and a name change; they represent a shift toward integrating and analyzing health care solutions collaboratively in a high-fidelity, communal and innovative facility.

At the heart of this transformation is SimLEARN, a program that the National SimVET Center embodies by being a common space that gathers simulationists, health care professionals and public health leaders to fulfill SimLEARN’s mission to advance Veteran health care.

Why the “National SimVET Center” and What It Offers

The National SimVET Center is more than a physical location; it’s a symbol of progress in Veteran health care. Here, capabilities converge to drive innovation, excellence and improved patient outcomes.

• Education: The Center is the hub for national simulation-based training curricula. It orchestrates the coordination and support of training programs across Veterans Integrated Service Networks and VA medical centers, providing crucial feedback on local curricula. The center also conducts train-the-trainer and train-the-provider programs, creating a network across VA of skilled health care professionals who can impart their knowledge and expertise and advance simulation in health care.
• Technology and Research: Innovation thrives within these walls. The National SimVET Center spearheads simulation technology innovation, evaluation and development, ensuring that the latest technologies are harnessed to enhance Veteran care. Technical support for simulation technology, national acquisition of simulation equipment, and educational research are fundamental functions. The Center even uses tele-simulation training, breaking geographical barriers to provide training opportunities.
• Fellowships and Other National Initiatives: It’s not just about training; it’s about shaping policy and standards. The Center contributes to the creation of national policies, procedures and standards for conducting simulation-based training across a network of Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical facilities. Work based out of the Center also includes advanced fellowships, such as the VA Interprofessional Advanced Fellowship in Clinical Simulation and the Advanced Fellowships for Health Professions Education, Evaluation, and Research (HPEER).

“The National SimVET Center is at the forefront of health care innovation, driving advancements that positively impact Veterans’ lives. By integrating simulation, analysis and integration of state-of-the-art technologies, we are creating a safer and more reliable health care environment for those who have served our nation,” said SimLEARN’s Medical Director Dr. Scott Wiltz.

The SimVET Portfolio and its relationship with the National SimVET Center

SimVET is also the name of one of SimLEARN’s six portfolios, which focuses on health care solutions analysis and integration to ensure that no health information technology (IT) solution or medical device touches a Veteran unless it has been rigorously tested and proven safe and effective through simulation with the frontline staff.

SimVET, which is housed in The National SimVET Center, employs a comprehensive journey that begins with the selection and prioritization of health care solutions based on VHA and Veteran priorities. These chosen solutions then undergo rigorous evaluation, focusing on usability, workflow impact, safety and feasibility.

Next comes a Consumer Reports-style analysis that presents a balanced view of pros and cons, comparisons, advantages, safety insights and user recommendations. SimVET leaves no stone unturned in ensuring that the solutions seamlessly fit into the VHA environment, enhancing care for Veterans and clinical staff.

“Our process doesn’t end with the analysis,” SimLEARN Director Eric Bruns said. “We inform confident decisions by VHA leadership, program offices and stakeholders, enhancing patient care and operations.”

SimVET prioritizes safety and empowers frontline staff and clinicians who directly provide care to Veterans. By involving them in the vetting process, it ensures that health care solutions not only work on paper but seamlessly integrate into real-world scenarios.

“SimVET is all about transforming how we test and deliver care to Veterans,” said Dr. Carolyn Clancy, assistant under secretary for Health for Discovery, Education and Affiliate Networks with the VHA. “SimLEARN is supporting a lot of our work and building a system that’s highly reliable where we are constantly vigilant to make sure that we don’t harm Veterans inadvertently as a result of providing care.”

Looking forward at the National SimVET Center

SimLEARN envisions a future where every Veteran receives the highest standard of care. This vision encompasses collaborative events, cutting-edge technologies and a commitment to excellence. In the coming years, the National SimVET Center will continue to push boundaries, explore emerging technologies and foster collaboration among health care leaders. It will be the driving force behind health care transformation, always with the well-being of Veterans at its core.

The National SimVET Center is more than a facility; it’s a promise. A promise to Veterans that their health care will continually evolve, improve and adapt to their ever-changing needs.