Use of High-Definition, Time-lapse Photography to Simulate the Operation of a Point of Dispensing (POD) Clinic and its use for Training POD Managers

Introduction: Simulation when used as an educational methodology has been shown to increase recall of knowledge, retention of skills and an increase in self-efficacy when used in the training of public health and medical personnel. It has been difficult to find meaningful ways to simulate the functional roles of public health agencies during pandemics and public health emergencies. To bridge this gap in educational methodology the National Center for Disaster Preparedness (NCDP) at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University designed a model training program targeted at the mid-level public health worker for the set-up and management of point of dispensing (POD) operations focusing on the simulation of actual functional roles within an operating POD.

Methods: High definition, aerial, videography was used to capture the operation of an antibiotic dispensing POD exercise including set-up, staffing, queuing and throughput. Additionally, simulated problems were orchestrated to identify weakness in POD management and test participant response.

Results: Video captured was time compressed and used in classroom training of POD senior leadership to educate and illustrate common problems in POD staging, queuing, staffing issues, throughput and flow issues, and crisis/unplanned event management.

Conclusion: Simulation of POD operations in a classroom setting allows public health workers who manage and direct POD operations, the ability to observe, analyze and evaluate problems and brainstorm potential solutions in a controlled learning environment. By re-creating actual POD operations using simulation technology participants are able to virtually experience typical issues in POD operations and role play their response. The value of simulation as a tool in preparing public health workers for managing public health emergencies is underutilized. Identifying cost effective solutions such as this are essential in maintaining a workforce that is Public Health Ready.