Introduction: High-fidelity medical simulation training is one of the few evidence-based interventions demonstrated to reduce medical errors and improve trainee readiness for medical techniques, tactics, and procedures. However, limitations of current simulation technologies limit immersive simulation capabilities for the prehospital setting, due to limitations in their capability to represent realistic casualties and the psycho-environmental characteristics of battlefield environments. In this paper, we report our adaptation of a commercially available civilian virtual reality (VR) medical simulation training platform for use in a novel curriculum for medical sustainment training of USAF Pararescuemen and other special forces personnel.
Methods: First, we performed a needs and gaps analysis, providing a roadmap for the agile, interactive development of the simulation training curricula. Next, we specified and implemented the required capability using a layered framework, with an underlying capability platform layer for DOD virtual reality medical simulation training adapted from the prior civilian capability, and a curricular layer developed on top of the platform using a domain-specific language, and interpreted in the platform runtime. Finally, we deployed the resulting capability, starting with a small-scale test and evaluation period and proceeding to a large-scale distributed evaluation period before beginning the programmatic transition for long-term procurement and sustainment.
Results: Five major training areas were identified for this project: TCCC, PCC, SUC, CBRNE, and certification readiness. Six design principles were identified to mitigate drawbacks of previous VR medical simulation efforts: 1) Full Immersion, 2) Multiplayer First, 3) Psycho-environmental Realism, 4) Dynamic Physiology, 5) Complete SKOs, and 6) Mutable Scenarios. A 25-scenario curriculum was successfully developed after the adaptation of the civilian simulation training platform with DOD feature requirements. The resulting curriculum (VALOR CORE) underwent phased deployment and then began the programmatic transition.
Conclusions: Here, we report on a successful multi-year collaborative effort between industry, academia, and the US Air Force to develop a mission-ready VR medical simulation capability that uses low-cost, commercially available technology and addresses shortcomings that previously limited the utility of such virtual simulation training. Overall, we have demonstrated that VR medical simulation can be a practical, usable tool within the DOD and that current-generation technologies can be leveraged to produce training capabilities that can solve mission needs now, even as new technologies (such as advanced haptics and full-body sensory immersion) are under development.
@inproceedings{Sarma2022iitsec,
author = {Sarma, K. V. and Barrie, M. and Dorsch, J. R. and Weiss, T. L. and Ribeira, J. R. and Polson, J. S. and Namperumal, S. K. and Ribeira, R. J.},
booktitle = {Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference},
title = {{Virtual Advancement of Learning for Operational Readiness: Implementation and Transition of a VR Medical Simulation Capability for TCCC Responders}},
year = {2022},
}