Talking with patients about sex: results of an interprofessional simulation-based training for clinicians

Sexuality is often a neglected topic in healthcare consultations. Several factors have been identified by clinicians as barriers to communication around sexuality, including lack of time, inadequate training, and personal discomfort. Within the Program to Enhance Relational and Communication Skills (PERCS), we developed a half-day interdisciplinary workshop that focuses on communication skills around sexuality and management of sexual problems with patients (PERCS-sexuality). This study reports on the efficacy of six PERCS-sexuality workshops enrolling 84 clinicians. Through a pre-post-questionnaire, participants rated their preparation, confidence, anxiety, communication and relational skills in talking with patients about sexual issues. Qualitative questions were also asked on their learning experience. The workshop increased participants' preparation (p = 0.000), confidence (p = 0.000), communication (p = 0.000), and relational skills (p = 0.000). Anxiety did not decrease. Qualitative comments focused on: Acquisition of communication and relational skills, Importance of patient's sexuality, Appreciation of group dynamics, and Personal insights. The findings suggest that PERCS-sexuality is a useful training experience to improve clinicians' attitudes and skills in addressing sexuality with patients.