[Communication training for the medical staff can improve patient satisfaction]

This literature review presents results of research on communication skills training (CST) of medical staff and its effect on patients. The 27 studies identified by a search in PubMed and Cochrane databases showed considerable heterogeneity in interventions, methods and study length. Most studies found a positive effect on patient satisfaction after the staff had participated in CST. Furthermore, there are indications that CST has an effect on other patient outcomes. Increasing the patient-centeredness in the consultation results in improved patient satisfaction and moreover has positive effects on psychological and physiological factors, such as improved function status and reduction in pain and blood pressure. Overall, we conclude that CST for health staff tends to improve patient satisfaction and other patient outcomes. The results of the studies are ambiguous, however the majority show positive results.