Medical simulation is born - in the wake of experience observed in aviation - from the need to fuse theoretical knowledge and practical exercise, in a context where a tiny error can be irreversible and, at times, fatal. It is essential then that medical training should be based on practical experience where critical patient situations are reproduced.
Simulation provides experiential training through which the physician can acquire a baggage of skills in order to respond promptly and effectively in critical circumstances, decreasing the likelihood of error in real situations and minimising risk for the patient.

Simulation facilitates global training. Teams working with real instrumentation have the opportunity to put organisational processes into action in a realistic environment. In this way, a complete range of skills - such as decision-making, communication and manual dexterity - can be learned and best practice models and international guidelines can be memorised.

In medical simulation, visual and tactile technologies combine with artificial intelligence, making it possible to simulate different medical procedures, from cataract surgery to renal stenting, from laparoscopy to cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, from diagnosis of osteopathy to treatment of an HIV positive patient.

In the protected context of simulation, medical error is transformed into an opportunity to learn without generating harm for the patient. The doctor can repeat clinical and interventional procedures time after time, to maximise effectiveness in actual practice.