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SSH Affirms Importance of Health Agency Stability

In a recent letter addressed to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH) advocated for a reconsideration of staffing reductions and restructuring efforts within key health agencies under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). SSH raised alarms about the potential detrimental effects these changes could impose on healthcare quality and patient safety.

SSH's correspondence, signed by President Jared Kutzin and Executive Director Jennifer Manos, highlighted support for the Make America Healthy Again Commission's goals, particularly in addressing chronic diseases and improving healthcare environments. Nevertheless, SSH leaders voiced their concerns that the ongoing reorganization could pose serious risks to these important objectives, especially programs led by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ).

In the letter, SSH underscored the significance of AHRQ’s initiatives, which play a crucial role in maintaining safety standards in hospitals nationwide. “These changes risk disrupting critical programs,” the letters read. The critical work of AHRQ is foundational in safeguarding patient safety and enhancing quality care.

The SSH has requested an urgent meeting with Secretary Kennedy to discuss these significant concerns and advocate for the necessity of continued investment in simulation-based training. This training methodology has proved invaluable in preparing healthcare professionals to offer safer and higher-quality patient care.

“Reducing staff and restructuring agencies at this critical time weakens our ability to confront evolving health crises,” according to the letter. “Simulation enhances readiness and saves lives, and prioritizing this approach is essential.”

Founded in 2004, SSH has been a leader in healthcare simulation, representing over 5,200 individuals committed to boosting patient safety through innovative training solutions. The organization oversees national certification and accreditation programs while partnering with health and safety institutions across the United States.

SSH posits that with healthcare systems grappling with complex challenges, it is imperative to maintain robust staffing levels and invaluable training programs that improve service delivery.

For further inquiries and additional information, interested parties can reach out to Curtis Kitchen, SSH’s Director of Marketing, at [email protected]

About SSH

The Society for Simulation in Healthcare is a registered 501(c3) nonprofit organization aimed at enhancing patient safety and healthcare outcomes via simulation-based education and research. With a membership of over 5,500, SSH includes physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, educators, researchers, and administrators globally. Currently, SSH boasts more than 250 accredited programs and over 4,800 healthcare professionals certified worldwide. For further details, visit ssih.org.