Inland Hospital is proud to announce the establishment of The Bickford Medical Simulation Program. The new medical education program is made possible thanks to a generous donation of $200,000 from Chuck and Joan Bickford of Winslow. Chuck Bickford is a long-time Inland trustee and Waterville banker and Joan is an active volunteer at Inland.
The program was announced at a special event on April 30. The Bickford Medical Simulation Program will feature four high-tech computerized mannequins called “patient simulators” that can be programmed to mimic a variety of complex medical scenarios, such as trauma, cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest, and airway obstructions. Two of the simulators are a mother and newborn and will allow staff to practice complicated obstetrics deliveries. The unique equipment tests staff and physicians’ clinical and decision-making skills with immediate performance feedback. The program’s training lab is currently being constructed in the Medical Arts Building and is scheduled to open this fall.
Simulation training is important to quality medical care in rural areas, where high-risk procedures are seen less often, but the need to stay prepared for them remains. According to Rick Barry, RN, BSN, Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Inland, “The use of human patient simulation (adult, obstetrical, pediatric and newborn) provides an opportunity to reduce medical errors and their severity while improving patient care. The simulators allow for repeated practice of routine procedures, as well as rare conditions and life-threatening emergencies, all in a real-time environment.”
Inland President and CEO John Dalton praises the Bickfords for their commitment to medical education. “Their tremendous gift allows Inland to offer a valuable community benefit. Besides Inland staff, healthcare personnel from around the region will be able to take advantage of the medical simulation training - from first responders and other emergency medical services, to nursing and medical students. This unique education makes healthcare stronger and keeps us focused on continuing to provide the best patient care.”
The Bickfords say they are happy to support such a worthwhile cause. “We value Inland Hospital and its dedication to Waterville,” notes Chuck Bickford. “We are pleased to help invest in healthcare personnel and the future of quality medical care in our community.”
Inland Hospital is a proud member of EMHS - Together We’re Stronger to ensure the highest quality healthcare is available to all.
To read more about Inland's new Patient Simulator, visit the following link: http://morningsentinel.mainetoday.com/news/local/6278924.html