Scoping Review of Simulation-Based Training for Social Determinants of Health Within Residency Programs

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health
• Simulation-Based Learning

Background:

• Social determinants of health (SDH) integration into medical curricula is growing.
• Limited synthesized knowledge exists on simulation's role in teaching SDH during residency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the extent and capacity of simulation use in teaching SDH to medical residents.

Main Methods:

• A 2023 scoping review analyzed studies on SDH, simulation, and residency training.
• Searches were conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Ovid.
• Inclusion criteria focused on SDH, residency training, and simulation use.

Main Results:

• Sixteen studies met inclusion criteria; patient-based scenarios were most common (7 studies).
• Financial instability was the most frequent SDH topic addressed (7 studies).
• Learners reported positive perceptions, increased knowledge of patient social needs, and improved risk identification.

Conclusions:

• Simulation offers diverse scenarios for learning SDH in residency.
• Simulation-based education for SDH is viewed favorably by residents.
• Simulation enhances resident understanding and management of patients' social needs.