Digitised remote delivery of simulation in psychiatry during the pandemic and for the future

INTRODUCTION: Surrey and Borders NHS Foundation Trust’s AVATr (Augmented Virtual-reality Avatar in Training) is a unique ground-breaking Virtual Patient simulation system, which uses the Xenodu platform to train learners in essential clinical and complex communication skills. Over 30 patient scenarios have been developed after identifying learner-specific development needs, including exploration of overt psychosis, assessment of capacity, sharing bad news, and neglect in care home residents. During the session, the trainee is projected on to a large screen, using a camera and video special effects, which results in a life-like interaction with the Virtual Patient. Trainees can view themselves interacting with the Virtual Patient in real-time, from a unique ’out-of-body’ perspective, immersed in a customdesigned interactive virtual environment. This is different to a first-person perspective used in virtual or augmented-reality systems in several clinical specialties. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we evolved the AVATr model to remote or hybrid sessions, where simulations were digitally enhanced, and have been run through Microsoft Teams. The simulation facilitator is connected to a multi-user video call, enabling the Virtual Patient to be projected as an attendee using Microsoft Teams. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the feedback from Doctors in training taking part on the education sessions. METHODS: We collected qualitiative and quanttaive infromation from participants after the teaching session. RESULTS: We received strongly positive reults in all parameters measured. the presenters will show a detailed breakdoen in the session. CONCLUSIONS: The digitalised delivery of the virtual patient simulation, has been pivotal in limiting interruptions to communication skills training in mental health. DISCLOSURE: The NHS trust has co produced the simulation platform with a private software firm Xenadu Virtual Environments