The Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH) plays a crucial role in advocating for the healthcare simulation industry with the United States Federal Government. This advocacy effort is spearheaded by the SSH Advocacy Committee, which was established in 2024.
Key Advocacy Activities
The SSH Advocacy Committee is responsible for:
• Developing and coordinating activities to execute SSH's policy and advocacy agenda
• Creating tools and methods for members to serve in advocacy roles on behalf of the Society
• Interacting with government leaders and organizations
• Forging partnerships with relevant stakeholders
• Engaging advocates within the simulation community
• Fostering issue campaigns as needed
Integrated Approach
SSH employs an integrated approach to ensure broad impact in its advocacy efforts. This includes:
• Government Engagement: Direct interaction with federal government officials and policymakers to promote the importance of healthcare simulation in improving patient safety and healthcare outcomes.
• Standards Development: Working with federal agencies to establish and promote standards for healthcare simulation, enhancing the quality and consistency of simulation-based education and training.
• Research Support: Advocating for increased federal funding for healthcare simulation research, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving clinical performance and reducing medical errors.
• Education and Awareness: Educating federal policymakers about the benefits of healthcare simulation in addressing critical healthcare challenges, such as workforce shortages and patient safety concerns.
Impact on Federal Policy
Through these advocacy efforts, SSH aims to:
• Increase federal support for healthcare simulation programs and research
• Integrate simulation more seamlessly into health professions education and practice
• Expand access to simulation technology for learners and healthcare providers across the nation
• Influence healthcare policy to recognize and promote the use of simulation in improving patient care and safety
By leveraging its expertise and the collective voice of its over 5,000 members, SSH continues to position healthcare simulation as a critical component in advancing the quality of healthcare in the United States.