1LLS3 - Enhancing Gender-Affirming Care with AI-Driven Virtual Reality: An Interprofessional Education Simulation

Abstract : Gender-affirming care is a critical area of healthcare that requires sensitivity, understanding, and competence across multiple disciplines. This project introduces an innovative approach using an AI-driven virtual reality (VR) transgender avatar to immerse nursing, social work, and public health students in a gender-affirming care experience. The goal of this IPE project was to enhance students' understanding of interprofessional gender-affirming care and improve their perceptions of interdisciplinary care teams caring for gender-diverse youth.

Students' engagement began with pre-work on implicit biases, followed by an immersive VR session that emphasizes teamwork and role clarity. Within the IVR environment, students collaborate on gender-affirming care that integrates nursing, social, and environmental perspectives. This simulation underscores the importance of effective communication and shared decision-making in delivering inclusive care.

Designed to enhance empathy and cultural competency, this IVR simulation allows students to interact with a transgender pediatric patient, navigating the complex medical, emotional, and social aspects of care. By using an AI-driven avatar, the scenario adapts dynamically, offering realistic patient interactions that reflect the nuanced needs and experiences of transgender youth.

Evaluation of this project used the IVR platform analytics that map student performance to the Creighton Competency Evaluation Instrument and the Simulation Effectiveness Tool-Modified instrument to gauge student perceptions of learning and confidence post simulation. IVR as a simulation modality, provides a forward-thinking model for preparing students to meet evolving healthcare standards. This novel approach enhances accessibility and scalability of gender-affirming care education, providing a safe, repeatable, and adaptable platform for learning.

Please include a short summary of your presentation that highlights why an attendee would want to participate in your session.: Explore how AI-driven VR simulation is advancing interprofessional education for gender-affirming care. This session demonstrates how nursing, social work, and public health students build empathy and cultural competency through immersive interaction with a transgender avatar. Learn effective evaluation strategies and discover how this innovation equips future providers for inclusive, compassionate care.