Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 21, 2026
Using Simulation Models to Train Clinicians in the Use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound
Published on: August 9, 2024
Simulation-Based Education for Health Professionals in Rural and Remote Contexts in High-Income Countries: A Scoping
Naomi Chebungei Tarus Smith1, James Padley2, Julia Muller Spiti3
1Adelaide Health Simulation, College of Health, Adelaide University, Adelaide, Australia.
Introduction:
Health professionals in rural and remote settings face distinct challenges including geographical isolation, workforce shortages, limited continuing professional development and reduced exposure to high-acuity, low-occurrence (HALO) clinical scenarios. Simulation-based education (SBE) has been proposed as a strategy to address these challenges; however, its design, implementation and evaluation in rural and remote contexts has not been comprehensively synthesized.
Objective:
To map and characterize existing literature on SBE designed and delivered to rural and remote health professionals in high-income countries.
Design:
A scoping review was conducted in accordance with JBI guidelines using the participant, concept, context (PCC) framework. Screening and data extraction were conducted using Covidence and results reported using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR).
Findings:
Thirty-seven articles met the inclusion criteria, predominantly from the United States of America (USA), Australia and Canada. Most used quantitative or mixed methods designs. SBE was characterized across six areas: Simulation activity, modality, facilitators, support structures, research methods and learning objectives. Emergency care training, particularly for the management of deteriorating patients and HALO scenarios, was most prevalent. Modalities included simulated patients, in situ simulation, virtual simulation and procedural simulation. Technology-enabling approaches, including telemedicine and mobile simulation units, were increasingly reported.
Discussion:
Reporting quality was variable. Most studies focused on learner-level outcomes, with limited evidence on system-level, workforce or patient outcomes. Rural-metropolitan collaboration through telemedicine and virtual facilitation was a recurring theme.
Conclusion:
SBE sustains clinical capability in rural and remote settings, particularly for deteriorating patient management, HALO scenarios and for introducing emerging technologies. Further research on implementation, outcomes and workforce impact is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Primary Healthcare Services
In 1978, international leaders convened in Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan, for what would be a pivotal event in global health. The Alma-Ata Declaration was the first to call...
01:30Specialized Care Centers and Settings-II
Rural health centers are specialized care facilities in remote locations with very few medical personnel. The primary care providers who run the centers are mostly Registered Nurse Practitioners. Here, emergency treatment is provided to critically ill or injured patients before they are transferred to the closest hospital. Fortunately, due to advancement in technology, many rural healthcare facilities and professionals have easy access to diagnostic and treatment...
01:26Methods Of Healthcare Delivery System
Managed Care System:
The managed care system is designed to control the cost while maintaining the quality of care. The patient's care from admission to discharge is planned by the primary care provider or the case manager, also known as the gatekeeper. In a managed care system, the number of care providers is limited...