Empathy Training in Dental Education through Immersive Virtual Reality Experiences
Homa Amini, D.D.S. M.P.H. M.S.
Columbus, Ohio, United States
Canise Bean, D.M.D. M.P.H.
Professor- Clinical
The Ohio State UniversityCollege of Dentistry
Columbus, Ohio, United States
It is extremely important that dental students receive immersive experiences regarding cultural sensitivity and diversity. Implicit bias leads to poor health outcomes and lack of provider empathy negatively impacts patient care. One solution is to utilize virtual reality (VR) training modules where the trainee will have a first-hand experience by being able to 'walk in' the shoes of a patient. This presentation will showcase a VR patient-scenario module developed to improve provider empathy. Participants will 1) experience a non-English-speaking-family dental visit through the eyes of the care-giver, and 2) become familiar with the use of innovative VR technology.