The Østergaard declaration : a European society of anaesthesiology and intensive care statement on advancing simulation-based education and training

Abstract

Introduction: From Evidence to Action Simulation-based education and training (SBET) is now an essential component in anaesthesiology, intensive care, peri-operative medicine and team-based clinical practice. It enables clinicians to apply knowledge, refine procedural and social and cognitive skills, think critically, act decisively, communicate effectively and respond appropriately under pressure.1,2 Beyond individual competence, SBET strengthens team dynamics, exposes systems vulnerabilities and enhances patient safety in high-stakes environments.3-5 Despite compelling evidence, major policy reports and professional consensus,6,7 SBET remains inconsistently implemented, unevenly funded and frequently regarded as ancillary rather than integral to training. This contradiction lies at the centre of the current challenge. The question is no longer whether simulation is effective, but why healthcare and education systems have yet to integrate it systematically into routine training and clinical practice. The European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC) asserts that the time has come to move beyond advocacy and pilot initiatives. SBET must now be formally recognised, governed and funded as core education and healthcare infrastructure.