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confusion, interfering with central and peripheral vision and overloading sensory nerves and fine motor skills. Hanson says UND has done simulations in its training for years, but is just beginning to implement its virtual programs. “I see a lot of value in virtual teaching,” she says.

“It’s definitely something that’s needed in education.”

Fahrenwald says the staff and students in SDSU’s College of Nursing are eager to begin using telehealth training in conjunction with CareSpan. The program will be great for nurse practitioners, who are heavily recruited and must satisfy many demands. “The outcomes of care from nurse practitioners have been demonstrated through research as being high-quality, cost-effective outcomes, and for us to be able to integrate this and for them to be able to develop these skills to put such a platform into their practice gives them all kinds of opportunities that we could have only imagined 20 years ago.”

Winter says, “Eventually, there’s no question this is the future of the way health care will be delivered.” PB

Lisa Gibson Editor, Prairie Business 701.787.6753 lgibson@prairiebusinessmagazine.com