A novel simulation-based training program to improve clinical teaching and mentoring skills.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation-Based Learning
• Physician Training

Background:

• Physicians frequently lack adequate training in essential bedside teaching and mentoring skills.
• Effective clinical teaching is crucial for medical student development and patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop, implement, and evaluate a simulation-based training program aimed at enhancing physicians' clinical teaching capabilities.
• To assess the impact of the program on physicians' self-perceived teaching skills and students' perceptions of their tutors.

Main Methods:

• A one-day tutor training program was designed, incorporating six simulated scenarios with video-based debriefing.
• Program efficacy was measured through pre- and post-program questionnaires for physicians and their students.
• Outcomes included self-assessed teaching skills at baseline, post-program, and post-tutor role completion, alongside student evaluations.

Main Results:

• Thirty-two physicians participated, reporting statistically significant improvements in 13 of 20 teaching skill measures post-program.
• Further significant gains in 19 of 20 measures were noted after completing the tutor role.
• Students rated tutors from the program higher than a control group, and 88% of participants felt the program enhanced their skills.

Conclusions:

• A novel, one-day simulation-based tutor training program shows promising results for improving physicians' clinical teaching and mentoring.
• The program effectively enhances self-perceived teaching skills and is well-received by participants.
• Simulation-based training offers a viable strategy to address deficiencies in physician teaching competencies.