Real-time medical simulation training for soldiers, doctors and paramedics
Against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Israel and in response to the deployment of emergency medical teams throughout the country, the Field Family Medical Simulation Center at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev has shifted into high gear. Students, soldiers, medical staff and even volunteer doctors from abroad are trained through a practical approach to treating trauma patients.
The Field Family Medical Simulation Center in the Rachel and Max Javit Medical Simulation and Classroom Building occupies four spacious floors. A comprehensive space includes classrooms equipped with medical devices, advanced simulators, research laboratories and the cornerstone of the project - the state-of-the-art medical simulation rooms for the training of doctors, nursing staff, and paramedics.
These simulation rooms meticulously reflect real-life medical scenarios, from mastering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques to life-saving procedures for trauma victims, such as stopping bleeding, airway management, and emergency surgeries.
Menachem Blumenthal, administrative director of the Field Family Medical Simulation Center, commented on the center's move toward a field hospital-style training facility, saying: "Since October 7, many medical teams, from the army and civilian organizations, have been asking for guidance at our simulation center, and we are trying to include them all in the training. On routine days, students, military, and police personnel train with us hoping their services will not be needed. Unfortunately, now it is "for real."”
The simulation center’s innovative approach, including the use of advanced simulators and a trauma room, has been significant in the preparation of many IDF (Israel Defense Forces) teams in recent days. Such sessions will continue as needed. This effort represents BGU's commitment to making a significant contribution during these challenging times.
"Despite the challenges we face, and despite the fact that a significant part of the team has been called up for reserve duty, hospitals and Magen David Adom, this is our small contribution, and we stand united with the medical community in these difficult times," said Dr. Oren Wacht, academic director of the Field Family Medical Simulation Center.
The training is conducted by instructors from the Field Family Medical Simulation Center and the Department of Emergency Medicine.
"Thanks to the cooperation and willingness of the Medical Simulation Center at Ben-Gurion University, we were privileged to have condensed and focused practice days that enabled a quantum leap in the professionalization of the senior therapists and paramedics and a strong sense of capability. We are fully appreciative of the simulation center’s staff, especially instructor Sahar Gavish, for their willingness to provide us with the facilities and professional guidance," said Dr. Gal Ben-Arieh, a specialist at the Soroka Imaging Institute who was recently called up to a reserve medical unit in the southern sector.
