Pilot testing of a model for insurer-driven, large-scale multicenter simulation training for operating room teams.

Simulation training for operating room (OR) teams is an effective tool for improving teamwork and communication, but can be resource intensive and expensive. Due to these barriers, most simulation programs have only included trainees. For this study, a malpractice insurer provided the financial and administrative resources necessary to develop a standardized OR simulation training curriculum that involved active participation of attending surgeons and anesthesiologists. The group provided modest compensation for physicians' time and achieved wide participation. This teamwork curriculum covered principles of communication, assertiveness, and use of the WHO surgical safety checklist. Nearly all (93%) participants thought that the training would help them provide safer care. Dr. David Gaba discussed simulation training in a recent AHRQ WebM&M interview.