Virtual Reality Training For Clinicians

Healthcare staff in Suffolk and north east Essex are being offered virtual reality (VR) training to enable them to better understand the patient experience.

The Insight Programme uses a range of new technology, including state-of-the-art VR headsets, which enable clinicians to see things from a patient’s perspective.

Interactive filmed scenarios allow them to follow the patient’s journey from initial presentation and consultation and onto diagnosis and treatment.

The technology also enables clinicians such as GPs, physiotherapists, paramedics and physician associates to engage with specialist learning resources along the way.

David Cargill, a GP at Stowhealth in Stowmarket, said he was “very excited” about the potential of the new training programme.

He said: “We’ve had two focus groups evaluating the training modules for some time now and the results are very positive.

“It’s a totally immersive experience that is so much more effective than sitting in a lecture or a face-to-face tutorial.

“When you experience the training, you immediately feel empowered to put it into practice with a patient.

“It takes you through different scenarios and allows you to consult specialist advice on how to deal with the difficult questions patients often ask.”

The Suffolk and North East Essex Training Hub has been working with Suffolk-based Revolve Labs and the Eastern Colleges Group to develop the new training platform.

It can be delivered via special VR headsets or by using a laptop computer or mobile phone.

The two-hour modules can be viewed in one go, or in bite-size 30-minute chapters to fit around the clinician’s workload.

Dr Cargill added: “The training uses interactive scenarios which give you the choice of viewing consultations from both the patient and practitioner point of view.

“But it also has embedded video content from healthcare specialists which provides in-depth commentary on different medical conditions.

“It enables you to anticipate the kind of questions you might get asked by a patient and see from their point of view what the best way of answering them might be.”

Integrated ‘stop and think moments’ prompt users to review key learning points and deepen their understanding of diagnosis and treatment.

The subject for the first module of the training programme, which is being officially launched this week, is chronic pain.

“It’s difficult having to explain to someone with fibromyalgia why they’re experiencing pain.

“Watching an expert do this is very empowering, particularly when combined with understanding from the patient’s point of view,” said Dr Cargill.

“Tackling and managing chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia is a priority for us in Suffolk and north east Essex and this training platform really works.

“Up to 28 million people in the UK suffer with chronic pain and it’s a leading cause of disability worldwide.

“In the case of around 84 per cent of people living with chronic pain it has a musculoskeletal cause like fibromyalgia.

“A second module about dementia is currently in production and a third is being planned around conflict resolution and de-escalation.

“That is something that will prove very beneficial for surgery receptionists and care navigators who sometimes have to deal with angry patients.”

The Insight Programme was initially developed to meet the needs of clinicians working in general practice.

The training is also relevant for wider healthcare professionals in hospital and specialised care settings.

As well as supporting existing staff it can also help the future workforce, enabling students, trainees and work experience interns to gain an understanding of the NHS.

Hamish Mackenzie, Founder of Revolve Labs, said: “The Insight Programme uses the power of virtual reality to create immersive educational experiences to meet specific healthcare training needs.

“Our approach facilitates faster, deeper and longer lasting learning compared to face-to-face or e-Learning methods.

“VR training enables professionals to build the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to improve the patient experience and strengthen team performance.

“We are delighted to be working with the NHS and the Eastern Education Group (EEG). We believe VR training has huge potential to provide better healthcare to local people.”