Piloting short empathetic refutational interview modules in clinical training: Two UK studies.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health Communication
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Healthcare professionals (HCPs) require effective communication strategies to address vaccine misconceptions.
• Improving vaccine conversations is crucial for public health initiatives.
• Novel training frameworks are needed to enhance HCPs' confidence and skills in vaccine communication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of the Empathetic Refutational Interview (ERI) training module on HCPs' vaccine communication confidence.
• To assess the effectiveness of a novel framework for improving vaccine conversations and addressing misconceptions.
• To introduce ERI as a continuing medical education tool.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods evaluation was conducted on a short-form (60-90 min) ERI training module.
• Training was delivered in two UK clinical settings: alongside immunisation training (Study 1) and as a stand-alone session (Study 2).
• Participants included HCPs (Study 1: n=61; Study 2: n=98) who received ERI or control communication training.

Main Results:

• Participants demonstrated significant improvement in vaccine conversations post-training.
• ERI group participants reported enhanced communication skills and techniques, contrasting with the control group's focus on knowledge of information sources.
• Participants found the ERI framework provided a valuable conversation structure.

Conclusions:

• Short, focused training modules, such as the ERI, can effectively improve HCPs' confidence in vaccine communication.
• The ERI framework offers an evidence-based structure that enhances HCPs' awareness and application of effective vaccine communication skills.
• This study highlights the potential of innovative communication training to address vaccine hesitancy and improve public health outcomes.