Remote delivery of software-based training for implantable medical device systems

Abstract

A system and method for remote delivery of software-based simulated training and certification for technicians/operators involved in the management of programmers, programmer-IMD interface and related procedures is disclosed. Preferably a web-based expert data center directs the software-based simulated training and certification which is remotely imported to a programmer. The programmer or equivalent device is coupled to the web-based expert data center via preferably one of many data communication systems. A set of skill-based training activities corresponding to a plurality of software applications on the programmer is accessible from the programmer. The operator issues a training request from the programmer to the expert data center for a specific software application. The expert data center builds a simulated training module based on the operator's request, and returns the training module to the programmer. The training module executes a simulated skill-based training corresponding to the operator's desired software application. Upon completion of the training module, the training results are analyzed. Thereafter, certification may be issued if the operator scores a passing grade on a test at the end of the training. The training results and certification information are archived on the computer, and the certification is electronically transmitted to a certification authority. Upon certification, the operator is granted access to use the specific software application through an authorization key.