Virtual patients, real learning: extended reality simulation for clinical menopause education

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation Technology
• Women's Health

Background:

• Menopause management education for OB/GYN residents often has gaps.
• Standard educational methods may not fully prepare residents for complex menopause care.
• Innovative tools are needed to enhance clinical training in this area.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess an extended reality (XR) avatar-based simulation for menopause education.
• To evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of this XR module for OB/GYN residents.
• To determine its impact on resident knowledge, confidence, and preparedness.

Main Methods:

• 57 OB/GYN residents participated in a pilot study using an XR avatar simulation module.
• The module was developed based on Kern's framework and national guidelines.
• Pre- and post-assessments measured usability, satisfaction, knowledge, and confidence.

Main Results:

• Mean knowledge scores increased from 79.8% to 82.8% (P=0.028).
• Significant improvements were reported in readiness to manage menopause (59%) and hormone therapy (50%).
• 96% of participants would recommend the module, rating it effective and engaging.

Conclusions:

• The XR simulation module is acceptable and effective for enhancing clinical menopause training.
• It shows potential as a scalable tool to address educational deficits in menopause care.
• This technology can improve resident preparedness in managing menopausal symptoms and therapies.