[ACACIAS 3: Learning about announcement consultations in the second cycle of medical studies]

The second cycle of medical studies is a key time for developing interpersonal skills and the doctor-patient relationship. High-fidelity simulation is an initial learning option that enables learners to confront situations involving empathy.

This is a feedback report from May 2023 on the implementation of simulation as a training tool for 2nd cycle medical students in the announcement consultation. The training consists of two parts: theoretical teaching via a digital platform with an assessment of theoretical knowledge and a practical part with a simulation session with an actress playing a standardized patient. The acquisition of skills and the reflexivity of learners are assessed by means of a pre- and post-test.

Twenty-nine externs took part in this project. Student satisfaction was 96 %. The feedback was very positive, both in terms of the quality of the sessions and the briefings/debriefings. Almost all the students wanted to repeat the experience. The simulation exercise was beneficial for the students in terms of the development (before vs. after) of their skills (verbal, emotional and relational) (1.05±0.25 vs. 1.22±0.19, P=0.047) and appeared to be relevant to the development of reflexivity (3.29±0.72 vs. 3.48±0.9, P=0.134).

This first published French study demonstrates the feasibility and value of training in announcing a diagnosis, combining teaching via a digital platform and high-fidelity simulation for second cycle medical students.