Problem Identification and Needs Assessment for a Universal Surgical Simulation Educational Fellowship Curriculum

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Simulation
• Curriculum Development

Background:

• Simulation-based training is expanding rapidly in healthcare.
• There is a growing need for trained simulation educators and leaders.
• Accredited surgical simulation fellowships lack standardized curricula.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a problem identification and needs assessment.
• To develop a standardized curriculum for surgical simulation fellows.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods needs assessment was performed.
• A scoping literature review identified existing curricula.
• Focus group interviews with fellows informed targeted needs assessment.

Main Results:

• Stakeholders confirmed the absence of a standard curriculum.
• Literature review revealed a paucity of relevant studies.
• Needs assessment informed the development of proposed curriculum modules.

Conclusions:

• A novel national curriculum structure for surgical simulation fellows was developed.
• This curriculum addresses the need for standardized education in simulation.