Standardizing and validating medical simulation equipment procurement across the Air Force Medical Service

Abstract

The Air Force Medical Modeling and Simulation Training Program Management Office identified an opportunity to more effectively utilize Air Force funds. The developed process reduces unnecessary purchases and streamlines the procurement and validation of medical simulation training equipment. The two-phase initiative included development of the Simulation Procurement Equipment Requirements Matrix (SimPERM), which compared equipment capabilities with training objectives, and aligning the SimPERM document with the existing equipment tracking mechanism, The Integrated Global Equipment Request System. Post procurement communication with the Biomedical Equipment Technician community was vital to successfully reduce extended warranties. This procurement initiative has enhanced allocation of US$1.1 million in Air Force resources per year by transitioning previous poorly planned purchases to validated Air Force education and training requirements.