USF Health Eyes Downtown Tampa For New Training Facility

USF Health is planning a state-of-the-art training and research facility for medical professionals.

Michael Hoad, vice president of communications at the University of South Florida, says the core draw for medical professionals who will attend training at the new center is the center itself.

"It's like the pilot training centers that airlines have," says Hoad. "We know there is national pressure for skills testing and certification. We know surgeons are interested in new ways to be safe and high quality. All of that will draw them."

According to Hoad, the Center for Advanced Medical Learning and Simulation (CAMLS) will be a special facility. "Right now it will be one of the few in the country -- certainly the only one in the region." But Hoad warns that USF needs to jump quickly at the opportunity. "Other universities will develop these, which is why there is urgency to get going quickly."

The CAMLS will provide training in surgical skills, simulation and virtual hospital, a lecture auditorium and a research and innovation laboratory that will develop and test prototype devices and techniques.

If a proposed location in downtown Tampa is approved, it will increase business for the Hyatt, the Marriott Waterside and other downtown hotels. In addition, Disney World, Busch Gardens and Sea World are within a two-hours' drive, a plus for those medical professionals traveling with family.

Hoad also adds that the chance to work with USF faculty is another major draw. "USF is excited about exploring the downtown Tampa location. We believe we can be an anchor tenant for business in Tampa by drawing people to the region," says Hoad.

Writer: Missy Kavanaugh
Source: Michael Hoad, USF Communications