Testing the ABCs of Serious Illness Program for Oncology Trainees: A Feasibility Trial Comparing Different Learning...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Oncology Training
• Communication Skills

Background:

• Serious illness communication is crucial in oncology.
• A novel curriculum, ABCs (All providers, Better Communication skills), was developed using electronic learning modules (ELMs), standardized patient (SP) encounters, and coaching.
• A randomized controlled trial (RCT) pilot was conducted to assess the feasibility of this virtual training program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) for a novel serious illness communication curriculum.
• To compare the effectiveness of different training components within the curriculum.
• To evaluate the impact on postgraduate oncology trainees' communication skills and self-efficacy.

Main Methods:

• A pilot RCT was conducted at three academic centers with postgraduate oncology trainees.
• Trainees were randomized to receive ELMs with SP encounters and coaching (intervention) or ELMs only (control).
• Feasibility was assessed via recruitment and data collection; outcomes included simulation-based assessments (COM-ON) and self-efficacy surveys (EPCS).

Main Results:

• Recruitment fell short of the target (37%), but adherence and data collection were high.
• Significant improvements were observed in both self-efficacy (EPCS score) and communication quality (COM-ON score).
• The intervention arm (ELMs, SPs, coaching) showed the greatest improvement in both outcomes; participants reported high satisfaction with virtual learning.

Conclusions:

• Virtual delivery of the ABCs curriculum is feasible and improves oncology trainees' serious illness communication skills and self-efficacy.
• The combination of virtual SPs and coaching appears to optimize learning outcomes.
• Lessons learned will inform future medical education research in communication skills training.