AI-generated virtual standardized patients: Transforming healthcare training
Session Type
Presentation
Room
Physics and Astronomy, room 106
Start Date
16-7-2025 11:00 AM
End Date
16-7-2025 11:30 AM
Keywords
Avatar, Healthcare, Artificial Intelligence, Education, Virtual Patient
Primary Threads
Education Technologies and Innovative Resources
Abstract
In healthcare education, standardized patients —human actors trained to portray patients—have long been a cornerstone of student training, offering invaluable opportunities for learners to practice clinical and communication skills. However, the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) is revolutionizing this domain, allowing the creation of AI-generated virtual standardized patients. Virtual standardized patients are a valuable adjunct to traditional training with human patients. While human interactions provide nuanced, real-world complexity and variability, AI systems offer consistency, inclusivity, and tailored feedback that can be challenging to achieve in live settings.
This session explores developing and implementing a virtual standardized patient platform at the School of Pharmacy at the University of Waterloo. Drawing on a combination of theory, research, and practice, this presentation will outline how AI and VR technologies were incorporated to create interactive, lifelike patient simulations. Key topics will include how virtual standardized patients can help students practice identifying clinical problems, communicating effectively with patients, and honing professionalism—all in a safe, low-pressure environment.
Virtual standardized patients address challenges like limited access to human actors and variability in training, offering consistent and inclusive learning opportunities. We’re preparing future healthcare professionals to adapt to an ever-changing world by embracing these innovations.
Elements of Engagement
During this presentation, we will be engaging with the audience in the following ways:
- Mentimeter questions regarding experiences and attitudes around AI in clinical education
- Interaction with the AI platform in real-time using a pre-determined case
AI-generated virtual standardized patients: Transforming healthcare training
Physics and Astronomy, room 106
In healthcare education, standardized patients —human actors trained to portray patients—have long been a cornerstone of student training, offering invaluable opportunities for learners to practice clinical and communication skills. However, the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) is revolutionizing this domain, allowing the creation of AI-generated virtual standardized patients. Virtual standardized patients are a valuable adjunct to traditional training with human patients. While human interactions provide nuanced, real-world complexity and variability, AI systems offer consistency, inclusivity, and tailored feedback that can be challenging to achieve in live settings.
This session explores developing and implementing a virtual standardized patient platform at the School of Pharmacy at the University of Waterloo. Drawing on a combination of theory, research, and practice, this presentation will outline how AI and VR technologies were incorporated to create interactive, lifelike patient simulations. Key topics will include how virtual standardized patients can help students practice identifying clinical problems, communicating effectively with patients, and honing professionalism—all in a safe, low-pressure environment.
Virtual standardized patients address challenges like limited access to human actors and variability in training, offering consistent and inclusive learning opportunities. We’re preparing future healthcare professionals to adapt to an ever-changing world by embracing these innovations.