In the wake of the landmark 2002 Institute of Medicine report To Err Is Human: Building a safer Health System, national attention has been focused on the safety of our patients. No formal multidisciplinary simulation center existed in Indiana; however, independent components of simulation did exist at Indiana University Health and Indiana University Schools of Medicine and Nursing.

The Simulation Center concept was determined to be necessary to provide students and professionals with the best training to provide safe care to patients, but also necessary to provide a service of training to others in the state and the nation.

The Simulation Center consists of three partners: IU Health, Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSOM) and Indiana University School of Nursing (IUSON). These groups embarked on a joint venture in 2005 after establishing a common mission, vision, and goals that align with patient safety.

A governance committee led by Eric Williams, MD was formed in late 2005 and provided direct oversight for all planning efforts. An operational committee was also formed shortly after this and led by Scott Engum, MD.

A timeline of events leading to the completion of The Simulation Center:

• The Simulation Center Program Proposal was presented to the IU Health Partners Board of Directors on February 23, 2006. The program was approved.
• The Simulation Center design was completed in May 2007
• Construction began in February 2007
• Construction was completed in October 2008
• Equipment and furniture installation began in November 2008
• AVS and B-line began their audio-visual installation in March 2009
• The OSCE Center moved from Methodist Towers to the Simulation Center in June 2009
• Audio-visual installation was completed in July 2009
• The Simulation Center staff was hired and trained in July 2009
• The center became fully operational August 1st, 2009
• An open house dedication was held October 12th, 2009