Development of a virtual poverty simulation experience for healthcare learners

Introduction: Poverty is a pervasive challenge impacting social determinants of health. Healthcare educators must prepare students for social justice advocacy, but limited tools exist to accomplish this goal. Innovation: An international interprofessional group developed an open-access poverty virtual simulation experience for healthcare students during a workshop. This simulation places students in the role of an individual living in poverty to promote empathy and reduce stigma. Results: This virtual simulation is an innovative approach to teaching poverty concepts, has been used during interprofessional education, and has potential for international implementation. Discussion: Further research is needed to test the impact of this simulation on educational outcomes.