New technology transforms medical education at UNMC

The iEXCEL program at the Davis Global Center of the University of Nebraska Medical Center is using immersive technology to revolutionize how medical professionals learn and care for patients.”It really gets the learner engaged in what they’re seeing, and they retain this knowledge,” Michael Hollins, Assistant Vice Chancellor of iEXCEL, said. “You’re not going to forget the time you had that ribcage popping out in front of you.”The program offers more than just screen-based learning; it involves real simulation experiences. Hollins described how medical professionals can “hear about a heart problem and throw on a VR headset and fly through it and see what it’s like.”The lesson plans are not derived from traditional textbooks or board exams. Instead, the technology is developed by individuals who have not attended medical school. Dheeraj Varandani, who previously worked in animation for Netflix, is among the graphic design specialists preparing doctors for the operating room.”Games and movies have had this technology for decades,” Varandani said. “I get to use the same skill set that I was trained in 3D design and technology, and I get to create these experiences not for entertainers but medical education.”The iEXCEL program has been on campus for five years and continues to grow, along with its impact. Hollins noted that doctors across the state are using “immersive technology” to change how they care for patients.”I can tell you they have actually changed their surgical plans and path of surgery, that has led to improved outcomes, decreased hospital time,” Hollins said.

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