In March 2024, Ingham Institute and South Western Sydney Local Health District (SWSLHD) partnered with the International Medical Robotics Academy (IMRA) to deliver a state-first surgical robotics training program in Liverpool.

The course is the only Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)-accredited robotic surgery education program in Australia. This was the first time it was delivered in NSW.

The five-day multi-disciplinary, cross-specialty pilot program was strongly subscribed, seeing over 45 surgical consultants, registrars and assistants trained in a range of robotic disciplines and procedures. Local trainees were able to access content in a hands-on, immersive approach designed and delivered by surgeons for surgeons, learning techniques required for safe, efficacious robotic surgery. The courses adopted a “train the trainer” approach for SWSLHD Faculty, promoting skills transfer and capacity building in the District.

IMRA CEO Adam Clark said the offering would expand to include synthetic organ technology, 3D virtual reality surgery, hands-on training, eLearning and live surgery for all stages of a robotic career. It strongly contributes toward attraction and retention of staff, preparing them for the operating theatres of the future.

Liverpool Hospital is one of the only public tertiary referral hospitals in Australia to have a multi-specialty surgical robotics program. The Program adopts an academic and research approach, leveraging partnerships with Ingham Institute and across its broad university network to ensure a unique combination of academic rigour, clinical excellence and direct translation into improved patient outcomes.

The initiative is a significant step forward in securing teaching, training and research in robotics and health technology as a fundamental centre of Ingham Institute. It positions south western Sydney as an early adopter and ongoing leader in the field, as this technology becomes the standard of care throughout the developed world.

Importantly, the course is an important advancement in equity of access in the District, said Prof Les Bokey. It is a step forward in meeting the unique needs of the south west. It provides patients with access to highly skilled and trained surgeons in cutting edge technology.