An evaluation of the virtual simulated surgery assessment for the induction and return to practice scheme

ABSTRACT

This paper reports on the development of the virtual Simulated Surgery assessment for the Induction and Return to practice (I&R) scheme and how it was used in the assessment of clinical and consultation skills. The evaluation examines the reliability and consistency of the virtual Simulated Surgery with the face-to-face assessment and reports feedback from the participants (candidates, administrators, marshals, examiners and role-players), highlighting what is lost and/or gained by the difference in format. Finally, the paper discusses the benefits and problems of remote assessment generally and looks at how this mode of assessment may be used in the future.

KEYWORDS:

• Assessment
• virtual
• simulation
• role-play

Acknowledgments

Alison Green (Admin Lead for the virtual SS) for her help in developing the process and training of the admin staff

Disclosure statement

Anwar Khan and Peter Burrows report they hold roles with the I&R scheme and are involved in the assessment process. Johnny Lyon-Maris is an assessor for the I&R scheme. Samantha Scallan has no conflict of interest to report.

Ethical approval

Ethical approval for the evaluation was granted by the University of Winchester (reference: RKEEC210207)

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.