On Friday, February 6, 2026, Special Olympics Montana partnered with Rocky Vista University to create a learning experience that benefited both future healthcare providers and athletes alike. The simulation training, held at Rocky Vista University in Billings, MT, brought together medical students and Special Olympics athletes in a meaningful, hands-on way that went beyond a traditional classroom lesson.

During the training, approximately 15 Special Olympics Montana athletes served as standardized patients—individuals who help medical students practice real-world clinical scenarios. Each athlete spent their free time preparing and learning the details of the same case study centered on diabetes management. Their role was critical: helping students practice communication, clinical reasoning, and patient interaction in a realistic setting.

The simulation was coordinated by Becky Anglin, DNP, CHSE, who oversaw the involvement of Rocky Vista University medical students. By working directly with athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), students gained valuable experience that many providers do not encounter until much later in their careers.

For people with IDD, healthcare settings can often feel intimidating or inaccessible. Miscommunication and lack of familiarity can create barriers to quality care. This training worked to change that narrative by giving future providers the opportunity to build confidence, empathy, and practical skills early in their medical education.

Opportunities like this help future healthcare professionals better understand their patients as whole people. It’s not just about diagnosing a condition—it’s about listening, respecting, and adapting care to meet each person’s needs.

“I can’t tell you enough how positive this experience was for the students and athletes,” said Mallory Frank, Health and Fitness Director for Special Olympics Montana. “The students expressed so much gratitude and greatly enjoyed the simulations. They want to continue partnering with SOMT and make this a part of their curriculum—that is our long-term goal.”

The long-term impact of this collaboration extends well beyond a single day of training. For medical students, it builds a stronger foundation for inclusive, patient-centered care. For the healthcare system, it helps move the needle toward improved access and better experiences for individuals with IDD. And for athletes, it offers a unique opportunity to step into leadership roles, share their lived experiences, and contribute directly to shaping the future of healthcare.

Special Olympics Montana continues to look for innovative ways to create inclusive opportunities that empower athletes while educating communities. Partnerships like this one with Rocky Vista University highlight what’s possible when learning is rooted in real connections and mutual respect.

As these medical students move forward in their careers, they’ll carry with them not only clinical knowledge, but the understanding that inclusive care starts with experience, openness, and seeing the person first.