SESAM Newsletter - January 2025

President's Message

I was completely taken in by the warmth, passion, and energy of the friends and colleagues at Morocco Sim, who gathered just a few days ago for the national conference. Education and simulation professionals from all over Morocco and beyond convened in Oujda for three days to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Moroccan Society of Simulation in Healthcare. 

 

The strong engagement of local authorities highlighted Morocco’s commitment to advancing healthcare simulation. As the President of SESAM, I was honored to participate and reinforce the importance of collaboration between SESAM and Morocco Sim. Strengthening these international partnerships is essential for promoting best practices, driving innovation, and improving patient safety worldwide. 

 

A heartfelt thank you to Mohammed Mouhaoui, the whole HTIC2025 organizing committee, the esteemed faculty members, and all attendees for making this conference a resounding success. 

 

As we look ahead to SESAM 2025 in Valencia, Spain, I want to reassure our community that the city is ready to welcome us in June. While the recent floods in the region raised concerns, we are pleased to confirm that Valencia city centre was not physically impacted and remains a vibrant and safe destination for our annual meeting. I look forward to gathering in this beautiful city for an inspiring and engaging event. 

 

 A person in a blue shirt

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Pier Luigi Ingrassia 

President, SESAM 

SAVE 2025: SESAM Annual Virtual Event

We’re excited to announce that registrations are now open for SAVE 2025 – the SESAM Annual Virtual Event! This new initiative is dedicated to global knowledge sharing in healthcare simulation, with a unique theme each year. 

 

For 2025, we focus on innovation in simulation from low- and middle-income countries. This virtual event will feature insights from PediSTARS India on building simulation communities, discussions on the barriers and enablers to knowledge sharing, and interactive workshops covering low-cost solutions, open educational resources, faculty development, and distance simulation partnerships. 

 

SAVE 2025 will spotlight innovation in simulation from LMICs, providing a platform for sharing expertise, fostering collaboration, and addressing the challenges and opportunities in simulation-based education across diverse global contexts. 

 

Event Details:  

Date: Thursday 13 March 2025  

Time: 12:00 17:30 GMT  

Virtual event hosted by SESAM 

 

Registration Fees:  

Free for SESAM Members (Use code SESAM25Comp & enter your member number)  

Free for attendees from LMICs (Use code SAVE25Comp)  

€7 for all other non-members 

 

For further information, please contact: 

 

SESAM 2025 Speakers announced

A blue and black logo

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

SESAM 2025 Speakers announced 

 

SESAM's Scientific Committee is delighted to share the highlights of the amazing programme developed for the 30th Annual Meeting of SESAM in Valencia. More than 500 abstracts will be presented as oral and short communications, e-posters or workshops.  A fantastic selection of plenary sessions will address this year’s theme: “Developing, adopting and embedding innovative simulation”. 

 

On Day 1, Professor Carmen Gomar-Sancho, a beloved Spanish anaesthesiologist, patient safety expert and educator, will take us on a journey exploring the adoption of healthcare simulation in Spain, highlighting how key organisations and societies have contributed to shaping the current landscape of Spanish simulation-based practice. Dr Aarti Shama, who leads the use of robotic surgery to operate on gynaecological cancers in Wales, will shed light on the role of simulation in developing robotic surgical skills. Mirka Cikkelova, the General Secretary of the European Patient Safety Foundation, will share her perspective on uniting experts and leading organisations to advocate for patient safety across Europe.  

 

Day 2 will commence with Dr Vicky Tallentire reflecting on her experiences mentoring and supporting the academic development of many rising stars in the field of simulation. Laurens Reinke and Uli Strauch will discuss the DUTCH project, a multimillion government funded national project investing in digital, virtual and physical simulation as a way of tackling healthcare staff shortages in the Netherlands. To finish the day, Sigrun Qvindesland will facilitate an international and multi professional panel exploring together what it takes to make everyday simulation a success.  

 

Day 3 will bring us Dr Linda Sonesson, Lecturer in Emergency and Trauma Medicine and Care, and Colonel Dr Laszlo Farkas, CEO for NATO Centre of Excellence for Military Medicine, who will speak about the use of simulation in large scale training for Civil and Military Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Response. Carla Prudencio, Continuous Education Coordinator at the Garrahan Pediatric Hospital in Buenos Aires, will reflect on how to create and maintain a culture of learning through simulation in a tertiary hospital, explore avenues to develop interprofessional programmes, and bring health simulation closer to family members and caregivers. The final keynote will be delivered by Dr Laura Rock, faculty member at the Center for Medical Simulation in Boston, celebrating the role of debriefing in supporting healthcare teams.  

 

We cannot wait to be in Valencia, enjoy the company of simulation colleagues, learn from our differences and be inspired by our common goals. Looking forward to seeing you there!  

 

Cristina Diaz Navarro 

Chair Scientific Committee 

SESAM 2025 Annual Meeting - Register Now!

 

Register now

📅 23–27 June 2025 
📍 Valencia, Spain 

 

With a record-breaking number of abstracts received and the momentum from last year’s incredible event in Prague, the 30th Annual Meeting of SESAM in Valencia is set to break even more records! 

 

Why Attend SESAM 2025? 

Gain insights from leading experts in healthcare simulation 
Participate in hands-on pre-congress workshops 
Connect with peers, researchers, and industry leaders 
Experience the vibrant city of Valencia, ready to welcome SESAM 2025 attendees 

 

5 Days Dedicated to Simulation 

 

SESAM 2025 will kick off earlier than usual with a series of Pre-Congress Activities: 

 

  • Monday 23 June: Writing Workshop – A retreat designed to help you progress your writing projects for publication, supported by Editors-in-Chief from renowned simulation journals. 

  • Tuesday 24 June: SiReN Research Summit & Educational Workshops – Engage with experts in simulation research, explore low-cost solutions, open educational resources, faculty development, and distance simulation partnerships. 

  • Tuesday 24 June (Evening): Official Opening of Exhibition and First-Time Attendees & Members Reception 

Pre-Congress Writing Retreat – Move Your Project to Publication!

📅 Monday 23 June 2025 
Do you have a writing project that you want to move toward publication? Whether it’s a research study, evaluation, innovation, or a thought-provoking editorial, perspective, commentary, or letter, the SESAM Writing Retreat might be just what you need! 

This unique retreat will provide dedicated time and expert support to help you refine your writing practice, rather than just the content of your project. You’ll be guided by Editors-in-Chief of renowned simulation journals, ensuring that your work aligns with the highest publication standards. 

 

The Writing Retreat is the perfect complement to the scientific content and workshops that form the backbone of the SESAM Annual Meeting. 

 

Image preview

Pre-Congress Workshops  

📅 Tuesday 24 June 2025 - morning and afternoon sessions 
Our Pre-Congress Workshops will cover topics including: 
🔹 Advanced debriefing techniques 
🔹 AI and simulation in healthcare 
🔹 Psychological safety and faculty development 
🔹 XR and immersive learning strategies 

More information here 

 

SiReN Research Summit: Unlocking the Potential of AI in Healthcare Simulation Research

📅 Tuesday 24 June 2025 - 0900-1700 

Explore the cutting edge of healthcare simulation research at the inaugural SiReN Research Summit. This one-day event is your chance to discover how artificial intelligence (AI) is driving innovation in simulation education and research. 

Why Attend? 

  • Learn from Experts: Gain insights from leading researchers and practitioners at the forefront of AI and simulation. 

  • Practical Skills:Participate in interactive workshops to explore real-world applications of AI in healthcare simulation. 

  • Collaborate and Network: Connect with a diverse community of researchers, educators, and innovators who share a passion for advancing healthcare simulation. 

  • Inspiration and Innovation: Leave with actionable ideas and new perspectives to apply in your work. 

What’s Included? 

  • A full day of engaging content, including plenary sessions, workshops, and interactive discussions. 

  • Opportunities to connect with experts through Q&A and networking sessions. 

  • Access to materials and resources to support your learning and application after the event. 

Whether you're just beginning your research journey or are a seasoned investigator, the SiReN Research Summit offers a dynamic, supportive environment to explore the transformative potential of AI in healthcare simulation. 

SESAM 2025 Party

Party for newsletter

🎉 Join us for an unforgettable evening at Campo Aníbal, a beautiful century-old estate surrounded by lush orange groves and gardens. Enjoy authentic Valencian food, drinks, and entertainment just 15 minutes from the convention centre. 
📅 Thursday 26 June 2025 
🚍 Transport provided 
🎟️ Tickets available here 

SiReN ALERT Session at SESAM 2025 – In-Congress Research Development Opportunity!

As part of the main SESAM 2025 Congress program, the SiReN ALERT Session offers an exclusive opportunity for researchers to present and refine their simulation-based studies with expert feedback. This session is an ideal next step after attending the Pre-Congress Research Workshops, providing an integrated experience for participants looking to enhance their research within the SESAM community. Do you want to refine your study with input from experienced researchers? If so, the Simulation Research Network (SiReN) ALERT session at SESAM 2025 in Valencia is for you! 

The ALERT session (Advanced Look Exploratory Research Template) provides a unique opportunity to present your research ideas in a 5-minute PowerPoint format, followed by small-group discussions where experienced simulation researchers will provide feedback, guidance, and networking opportunities. 

📢 Why participate? 
Receive valuable insights from experienced simulation researchers 
Gain constructive feedback to refine your study 
Build collaborations with peers in the simulation research community 

📅 Key Dates: 
🔹 Submission Deadline: 30 March 2025 
🔹 Acceptance Notifications: 25 April 2025 
🔹 Final Presentation Due: 1 June 2025 
🔹 SESAM 2025: 25–27 June 2025 

📩 How to apply: Submit your ALERT presentation via email to siren@sesamsociety.org. 

📍 Want to attend but not presenting? Register for SESAM 2025 via the main registration page. 

Join us for this exciting opportunity to develop your simulation research and connect with experts in the field. We look forward to seeing you there! 

SESAM 2025 Elections – Call for Nominations! 

A colorful art of a city

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

SESAM is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Executive Committee Elections. This is your opportunity to contribute to the leadership and strategic direction of SESAM.  Join us in advancing healthcare simulation worldwide.  

The SESAM Executive Committee drives innovation in clinical practice, education, research, and technology across our international community. 

Make Your Impact  

• Lead strategic research initiatives  

• Advance simulation technology integration  

• Shape international quality standards  

• Drive healthcare workforce development  

• Foster global research collaborations  

• Influence healthcare simulation policy  

 

Positions open for Election: 

  • President-Elect (1-year term) 

  • Treasurer (2-year term, renewable once) 

  • Members at Large (3 positions, 2-year terms) 

Key dates: 

  • Nominations Open: Monday 3 March 2025 

  • Nominations Close: Sunday 23 March 2025 

  • Candidate Announcement & Voting Opens: Monday 31 March 2025 

  • Voting Closes: Sunday, 20 April 2025 

  • Formal Endorsement and Announcement: SESAM AGM (Wednesday 25 June 2025) 

Interested? Check your email! Full details and link to nomination forms will be emailed to all SESAM members this week 

Questions? Contact: secretary@sesamsociety.org  

SESAM Member Spotlight:

Each month, SESAM highlights a member of our community to celebrate their contributions, share their journey in healthcare simulation, and inspire others. Our members drive innovation, foster collaboration, and help shape the future of simulation-based education. This month, we’re excited to feature Andy Buttery—a dedicated simulation educator and advocate for faculty development. 

 

andy-buttery 

 

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you became involved in healthcare simulation? 

I started my career as an Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) in the UK, working across critical care environments for 20 years. My growing passion for education led me to clinical teaching, particularly in resuscitation and teamwork training. In 2004, I transitioned into full-time simulation-based education at the Trent Simulation & Clinical Skills Centre, where I became the only clinician-educator in a pioneering multidisciplinary team. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to developing simulation faculty, curriculum design, and promoting best practices in healthcare simulation. 

 

What motivated you to join SESAM, and how has your experience been so far? 

I was drawn to SESAM because of its inclusive and collaborative approach to healthcare simulation. It’s been fantastic to engage with a network of professionals who are passionate about improving education, patient safety, and innovation in simulation. SESAM has always fostered an environment of open learning and shared expertise, which has been invaluable for my growth as a simulation educator. 

 

How has being a member of SESAM supported your professional development? 

SESAM has given me international exposure and the opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the field. Through the Scientific Committee and various SESAM initiatives, I’ve gained insight into different simulation methodologies, faculty development strategies, and global research trends. The connections I’ve made within SESAM have helped me refine my approach to transformative simulation—leveraging simulation as a tool to challenge traditional healthcare models and explore new ways of delivering care. 

 

Reflecting on your journey with SESAM, what are some key milestones that stand out for you? 

One of my standout moments was contributing to the Global Consensus Statement on Simulation-Based Practice. Being part of a collective effort to shape the future of simulation and ensure its credibility worldwide has been incredibly rewarding. I also take great pride in my involvement with the development of simulation faculty programs, ensuring that educators have the tools and confidence to deliver high-quality training. 

 

How do you see your involvement with SESAM benefiting the future of healthcare simulation? 

I believe simulation is not just an educational tool—it’s a vehicle for system-wide change. Through SESAM, I’m committed to advocating for simulation to go beyond skills training and serve as a mechanism for testing, innovation, and policy development. My goal is to continue working on inclusive simulation initiatives that support educators and clinicians in underrepresented regions, ensuring that high-quality simulation is accessible to all healthcare professionals. 

 

What advice would you give to future leaders in the simulation field? 

Be curious and adaptable—simulation is a rapidly evolving field, and embracing change is key. Seek out mentors and collaborators who challenge you to think differently. Don’t be afraid to push boundaries and question established practices—some of the greatest advancements in healthcare simulation have come from bold, outside-the-box thinking. And above all, stay passionate—simulation has the power to improve patient care and healthcare education in profound ways, so keep driving it forward! 

Stay Connected

                                                                       

Become a member of SESAM

Contact

SESAM Website