New $3 million center will help train 150+ residents a year in GME program
Jacksonville, Florida – August 27, 2024 – HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital proudly announces the grand opening of its state-of-the-art Simulation Center and the expansion of its Graduate Medical Education (GME) program. The milestone event, which took place on August 26, 2024, marks a significant advancement in medical training and patient care.
The new $3 million Simulation Center, a cutting-edge facility designed to enhance medical education and practice, features clinical settings, offices, conference spaces, classrooms and an auditorium. This facility 15,000 square foot facility will provide an unparalleled learning environment for residents and medical students, allowing them to refine their skills and prepare for real-world clinical challenges in a controlled, supportive setting.
The Simulation Center is equipped with the latest medical simulation technology, including realistic mannequins that can simulate a wide range of medical conditions and procedures. These advanced tools will allow residents to practice critical skills and emergency responses, providing them with invaluable experience before encountering similar scenarios in clinical settings.
The grand opening ceremony, held at HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, was highlighted by a ceremonial ribbon-cutting attended by local dignitaries, hospital leadership, and key stakeholders in medical education. Dr. Jessica El-Bahri, GME Associate Program Director, and Dr. Bradford Smith, Chief Medical Officer, delivered remarks underscoring the importance of the Simulation Center in advancing medical training and improving patient outcomes.
“Our new Simulation Center represents a significant investment in the future of healthcare,” said Dr. Bradford Smith. “By providing our residents and students with cutting-edge tools and realistic training scenarios, we are not only enhancing their educational experience but also ensuring that they are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the medical field.”
The grand opening event also featured guided tours of the new Simulation Center, demonstrations of the advanced simulation technology, and opportunities for attendees to interact with medical professionals and educators.
In the HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital GME program, residents and fellows are mentored by a dynamic network of physicians who are focused on teaching them to provide the exceptional, compassionate care patients deserve. “We train more than 150 residents each year in our GME program and our goal is to continue to grow,” said Hope Greig, Administrative Director of Graduate Medical Education. “Our program is led by an accomplished faculty and set under rigorous standards. We provide extensive training for the next generation of physician leaders right here at HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital.”
HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital remains committed to advancing medical education and enhancing patient care through innovation and collaboration. The new Simulation Center and expanded GME program are testament to this commitment, ensuring that the hospital continues to provide exceptional healthcare services to the community and beyond.
###
About HCA Florida Healthcare in Jacksonville
HCA Florida Healthcare, a part of HCA Healthcare, is a family of more than 500 affiliated sites of care. It is a collaborative network connecting approximately 11,000 physicians, 49 hospitals, over 50 urgent care centers and more than 350 physician practices and freestanding emergency rooms. In Jacksonville, HCA Florida Healthcare Memorial Hospital and HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital are part of this network of personalized care. Both are full service, acute care, Level II trauma hospitals fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations and both are ranked as one of the best hospitals in the country for heart, lung, and surgical care. For more information about services, facilities and physicians, please visit www.hcafloridahealthcare.com.