State-of-the-art clinical simulation center unveiled at Mission Health

Asheville, N.C. — HCA Healthcare’s Mission Health is proud to announce the opening of its groundbreaking HCA Healthcare Center for Clinical Advancement (HHCCA) — a leading-edge facility designed to enhance clinical training and elevate the standard of care across Western North Carolina.

This new nearly 14,000-square-foot training hub, located on the Mission Hospital campus, is one of only a select number of simulation centers across the HCA Healthcare network, and the first of its kind in the region. With an investment of $5 million, this center is equipped with the latest high-fidelity simulators, immersive hospital-grade simulation rooms, and advanced classroom technology, the center offers hands-on experience in real-world scenarios — all in a safe, controlled environment.

“This investment reflects our deep commitment to excellence in patient care and to the dedicated professionals who deliver it every day,” said Greg Lowe, president and CEO of Mission Health and Mission Hospital. “We’re creating an environment where nurses and clinical teams can refine their skills, grow in confidence, and ultimately, improve outcomes for the patients and families we serve.”

A closer look at the simulation center:

• High-fidelity simulation rooms — Fully equipped spaces that mirror clinical environments, including ICU and surgical settings, where teams train for scenarios such as trauma, cardiac arrest, and emergency response.
• Medication simulation lab — A realistic medication preparation and administration room designed to improve safety and reinforce best practices in pharmacological care.
• Connected classrooms — Integrated learning spaces that allow real-time collaboration and instruction with clinical teams across HCA Healthcare.
• Debrief rooms — Areas where instructors and trainees review video-recorded simulations to analyze performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Hands-on skills labs — Practice areas for procedures like IV insertion, wound care, and other essential clinical skills.

The center will support training for nurses, residents, and allied health professionals, providing everything from initial onboarding to advanced continuing education.

“Simulation-based learning allows us to bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world practice,” said Thomas Edwards, division director of simulation and technology. “It enhances critical thinking, communication, and clinical precision — all essential for safe and effective care.”

Training for tomorrow, today

Clinical simulation is a proven strategy to reduce medical errors, improve team dynamics, and enhance patient safety. By recreating real-life situations — without any risk to patients — nurses and clinical staff gain valuable experience and develop the confidence needed to handle even the most complex scenarios.

“This is the future of healthcare education,” added Lowe. “We’re not just preparing nurses for their first day — we’re preparing them for every day that follows.”