Training oncology practitioners in communication skills

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Oncology Communication

Background:

• Oncology practitioners often lack formal training in communicating with cancer patients and families.
• Medical educators may not be fully aware of effective pedagogical methods for teaching communication skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a small group teaching method for medical oncology fellows.
• To enhance essential communication skills through a 3-day retreat format.

Main Methods:

• A learner-centered approach was employed.
• Standardized patients simulated cancer patients across illness trajectories.
• Small group processes, reflective exercises, and role-play facilitated skills acquisition.

Main Results:

• The paper details the theoretical underpinnings and specific components of the communication skills workshops.
• The described method facilitates skills acquisition through active learning strategies.

Conclusions:

• The described retreat format offers a structured method for improving oncology communication skills.
• Evaluation methods for such communication skills workshops are considered.