University of Washington medical students are training with virtual reality technology and simulation devices at the school's Institute for Simulation and Interprofessional Studies, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports.
Brian Ross, executive director of the institute, said an increasing number of studies show that error rates and operating times can be significantly reduced by practicing surgical skills in virtual reality.
UW plans to use the institute to improve collaboration among different medical professions.
The school has received a $4.4 million grant from the Department of Defense, as well as a $900,000 grant from the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation and a $250,000 grant from the Hearst Foundation for the effort (Paulson, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, 1/4).