This Article Full Text (PDF) Submit a scholarly reply Alert me when this article is cited Alert me when eLetters are posted Alert me if a correction is posted Services Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Download to citation manager Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Morgan, P. J. Articles by Cleave-Hogg, D. Search for Related Content PubMed Articles by Morgan, P. J. Articles by Cleave-Hogg, D.

COST AND RESOURCE IMPLICATIONS OF SIMULATOR-BASED EDUCATION

Department of Anesthesia, Sunnybrook and Women's College Health Science Centre, University of Toronto, 76 Grenville St. Toronto, Ontario M5S 1B2

INTRODUCTION

Simulator-based education is proving to be a valuable undergraduate educational experience. However, financial and resource implications of this innovation may limit its integration into medical school curricula.

METHODS

Accumulated financial and faculty resource data of simulator-based education and evaluation for the period from July 1997-April 2001 were reviewed and analyzed. Operational costs for upkeep and maintenance of the anesthesia simulator as well as faculty resources required to implement the programs were assessed. An average cost per student was calculated based on a cohort of 10 students per session for a total of 177 students per annum.

RESULTS

Table 1 outlines the operational costs for education or assessment purposes in the undergraduate program. Table 2 summarizes the faculty costs for an educational program. Faculty costs would increase to 324 hours if used as an evaluation tool to accommodate two raters ($1.83 per student).

The financial and resource cost per student appears high. The value of the education and the validity and reliability of the assessments, coupled with patient safety will determine the ultimate acceptance of this innovation into undergraduate programs.

This Article Full Text (PDF) Submit a scholarly reply Alert me when this article is cited Alert me when eLetters are posted Alert me if a correction is posted Services Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Download to citation manager Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Morgan, P. J. Articles by Cleave-Hogg, D. Search for Related Content PubMed Articles by Morgan, P. J. Articles by Cleave-Hogg, D.