Simulation In Motion Montana Brings Mental Health Crisis Training To Townsend, Strengthening Community Healthcare Response
Author: Jamie Herzog - Simulation in Motion
Simulation in Motion Montana Brings Mental Health Crisis Training to Townsend, Strengthening Community Healthcare Response
Jamie Herzog
Simulation in Motion
Simulation in Motion Montana (SIM-MT) delivered an immersive mental health simulation training in Townsend, equipping local EMTs, paramedics, and nursing staff with essential skills to effectively respond to mental health crises. The training was supported by the Montana Hospital Association (MHA), with guidance from SIM-MT team members Susanne, Carolyn, and Charity, as well as Cindy from MHA.
This innovative training utilized realistic scenarios with live actors, allowing healthcare professionals to practice critical response techniques in a safe, controlled environment. With Montana facing some of the highest rates of mental health challenges and suicide in the nation, training like this is vital. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Montana has one of the highest suicide rates in the U.S., nearly double the national average, with rural areas especially impacted by limited access to mental health services.
“Having the opportunity to deliver this training in Townsend is part of our commitment to building resilient communities across Montana,” said Lee Roberts, Program Director of SIM-MT. “We know that rural healthcare providers are often the first line of defense in mental health crises. This training is designed to empower them with the skills and confidence to make a difference when it matters most.”
The training focused on building empathy, communication, and crisis response skills to help healthcare providers feel prepared for real-life mental health scenarios. Through the use of high-fidelity simulations, participants engaged in hands-on learning that emphasized teamwork, critical thinking, and patient-centered care.
“Montana’s mental health statistics remind us how critical it is to support our frontline responders,” said Sara Kaull, Executive Director of SIM-MT. “We’re honored to work with healthcare professionals who are committed to enhancing their skills and making a real impact in their communities.”
SIM-MT’s mobile simulation program is designed to address the unique needs of Montana’s rural and underserved communities, providing healthcare teams with hands-on training that would otherwise be challenging to access. By partnering with organizations like the Montana Hospital Association, SIM-MT is creating sustainable training solutions that improve patient care and safety throughout the state.
About Simulation in Motion Montana
Simulation in Motion Montana (SIM-MT) is a high-fidelity mobile simulation program providing advanced healthcare training to Montana’s rural communities. Using lifelike mannequins, live actors, and real-world scenarios, SIM-MT prepares healthcare providers to respond to critical situations, ultimately saving lives and enhancing the quality of healthcare across the state.
For more information about SIM-MT and future training events, please contact Lee Roberts, SIM-MT Program Director, at (406)-579-6580 or via email at lee@simmt.org.
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