In order to fuel innovation and progress, state of the art facilities are essential. Both knowledge and skills are crucial for all medical professionals. Both need to be learned and kept up to date. They facilitate the groundbreaking work of scientists and medical professionals. Professionals of today and tomorrow have to learn essential operating skills.

In 2019 Amsterdam UMC opened the Amsterdam Skills Centre. It utilizes the latest technologies so that surgeons and other medical personnel can master new techniques faster. This way quality of care can further improve and training costs can be reduced with the help of simulators, virtual reality and Artificial Intelligence. The  Amsterdam Skills Centre calls this ‘a new way of learning’ in which digital innovations play a central role.

Shorter learning path with digital technology

On average, a surgeon requires 30,000 hours of training and practice before one is allowed to operate independently and lead a surgical team. That is, the Amsterdam Skills Center  states, four times as much time as helicopter pilots need to obtain their wings. And even three times more than Jimi Hendrix needed to become ‘the world’s best guitar player’. By utilizing digital techniques such as simulators, virtual reality, and Artificial Intelligence, medical professionals are empowered to master required skills in a shorter timeframe, while simultaneously elevating the quality of care.

Pioneer in Life Science

The Amsterdam Skills Centre (ASC) of Amsterdam UMC opened in February 2019. The high-tech center includes twelve operating rooms, operating robots, and virtual reality simulators. This was achieved through collaboration with the international medical technology company Stryker. The Municipality of Amsterdam supports the ASC as part of its ambition to strengthen the capital’s position as a pioneer in the Life Sciences and Health industry.

What the Amsterdam Skills Centre has to offer

  • Smarter and faster learning
  • Reducing healthcare costs
  • Training 'off the job': where it is okay to make mistakes

Photography: Marieke de Lorijn/Marsprine