Choosing Wisely for Simulation-Based Learning in Health Professions Education

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Healthcare Simulation
• Health Professions Training

Background:

• Simulation is a key educational technique in health professions, replicating practice scenarios for skill development.
• It balances training needs with patient safety, offering benefits like standardized scenarios and improved learner competency.
• Simulation-based learning is increasingly integrated into academic curricula for healthcare professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advance the adoption and cost management of simulation-based education through an evidence-based approach.
• To align learning objectives with simulation designs by identifying high- and low-value applications.
• To provide practical recommendations for simulation-based education design.

Main Methods:

• Guided by the Choosing Wisely framework and campaign starter kit.
• A diverse author group synthesized empirical work and collective experience.
• Developed 10 Choosing Wisely-style recommendations for simulation-based education.

Main Results:

• Identified common high- and low-value applications of simulation-based education design.
• Presented 10 evidence-based recommendations for optimizing simulation use.
• Synthesized empirical data and expert experience into actionable insights.

Conclusions:

• An evidence-based approach is crucial for effective adoption and cost management of simulation-based education.
• The Choosing Wisely-style recommendations offer a framework for aligning simulation design with learning objectives.
• This work supports the strategic implementation of simulation in health professions education.