Simulation for quality assurance in training, credentialing and maintenance of certification

Simulation has become ubiquitous in medical education over the last decade. However, while many health-care professions and disciplines have embraced the use of simulation for training, its use for high-stakes testing and credentialing is less well established. This chapter explores the incorporation of simulation into training requirements and board certification, and its role for quality assurance of educational programmes and professional competence. Educational theories that underlie the use of simulation are described. The driving forces that support the simulation movement are outlined. Accreditation bodies have mandated simulation in training and maintenance of certification. It may be only a matter of time before simulation becomes one of the standards for performance assessment.