Press Release
DeGarmo today announced the launch of its Virtual Conversation Simulation Platform , an innovative learning solution that allows donation advocates to engage in realistic, AI-powered conversations with virtual donor family members. The platform provides an unprecedented opportunity to practice, refine, and strengthen communication skills through authentic, scenario-based learning.
Every donation conversation represents a family navigating one of the most difficult moments of their lives. For donation advocates, developing the confidence and judgment required for these conversations has traditionally depended on classroom instruction, observation, and limited opportunities for real-world coaching.
DeGarmo's Virtual Conversation Simulation Platform changes that.
Using conversational AI, participants interact naturally with virtual family members who respond dynamically based on the advocate's communication style, empathy, questions, and decision-making. Rather than following scripted pathways, every conversation evolves differently, closely mirroring the complexity and unpredictability of real donor family discussions.
"Technical knowledge is essential, but success in donation advocacy ultimately depends on human connection," said Anthony Adorno, Executive Director of DeGarmo. "Our goal was never to replace traditional learning—it was to create a way for advocates to safely practice the conversations that matter most. By making high-quality experiential learning available anytime, organizations can develop stronger communicators, support more consistent coaching, and ultimately help more families make informed donation decisions."
Built on Research. Designed for Real Conversations.
The simulation platform reflects years of DeGarmo research into the behaviors and communication characteristics associated with successful donation advocates. The platform combines that research with guidance from experienced donation professionals across the country to create realistic scenarios representing a wide range of clinical situations, family dynamics, emotional responses, and communication challenges.
Participants can practice conversations involving:
- Brain death and donation after circulatory death (DCD)
- Registered and non-registered donors
- Adult and pediatric donor scenarios
- Emotionally complex family dynamics
- Cultural, faith-based, and communication considerations
- Challenging questions, objections, and moments of uncertainty
Every interaction is unique, allowing advocates to repeatedly practice critical conversations while receiving structured feedback designed to reinforce effective communication behaviors.
Expanding Access to Meaningful Development
Historically, experiential learning has often depended on role-playing exercises, in-person observation, or coaching opportunities that can be difficult to scale across geographically dispersed organizations.
The Virtual Conversation Simulation Platform provides organizations with continuous access to high-quality practice experiences, allowing advocates to build confidence before entering real donor family conversations and to continue developing throughout their careers.
The platform also creates new opportunities for managers and coaches by providing recorded conversations that can be reviewed together, supporting more objective feedback and targeted development.
Part of a Comprehensive Learning Ecosystem
The simulation platform complements DeGarmo's broader learning and talent development solutions, including evidence-based talent assessments, instructor-led training, on-demand learning programs, professional coaching, and leadership development.
Organizations can integrate simulations into onboarding, ongoing competency development, coaching engagements, certification pathways, and leadership development initiatives, creating a continuous learning experience rather than isolated training events.
Helping More Families. Saving More Lives.
At its core, the Virtual Conversation Simulation Platform was developed with a single purpose: helping donation advocates become more prepared for conversations that can change—and save—lives.
Every improvement in communication has the potential to create better experiences for donor families, stronger professional confidence for advocates, and more opportunities for the gift of organ donation.
"As healthcare continues to embrace simulation-based learning across clinical disciplines, we believe the same opportunity exists for the communication skills that are equally critical to successful donation outcomes," Adorno said. "We're proud to introduce a solution that helps organizations invest in their people, strengthen family conversations, and advance the lifesaving mission shared by the entire donation community."
To learn more about DeGarmo's Virtual Conversation Simulation Platform or to schedule a demonstration, visit www.degarmo.com or contact Michelle Reef at [email protected]
About DeGarmo
DeGarmo is a talent science and professional development company helping organizations improve performance through evidence-based hiring, development, coaching, and leadership solutions. Serving healthcare and numerous other industries nationwide, DeGarmo combines behavioral science with innovative technology to help organizations identify, develop, and retain exceptional talent. Within the organ procurement community, DeGarmo partners with OPOs across the country to strengthen donation advocate selection, development, coaching, and leadership—advancing the quality of donor family conversations and supporting the shared mission of saving more lives.
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