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Implementation of Structured Oncologist Communication Skills Training within the Improving Goal Concordant Care
Sahana Rajasekhara1, Heather N Bitar2, Elizabeth T Loggers3,4
1Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA.
Journal of Palliative Medicine
|May 7, 2026
Summary
Structured communication skills training (CST) was successfully implemented in oncology settings, exceeding targets and improving clinician self-efficacy. This initiative highlights CST
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Education
- Health Communication
Background:
- Effective communication of goals of care is vital in oncology.
- Insufficient training and systemic barriers limit current communication practices.
- The Improving Goal Concordant Care (IGCC) initiative addressed these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement and evaluate structured communication skills training (CST) for oncology clinicians.
- To assess the feasibility and impact of CST across multiple cancer centers.
- To identify factors supporting successful CST implementation.
Main Methods:
- A collaborative improvement project involving 10 dedicated cancer centers.
- Centers adapted or selected CST programs aligned with IGCC criteria.
- Primary outcome: percentage of eligible clinicians completing CST; secondary outcomes: clinician satisfaction and perceived impact.
Main Results:
- 80% of eligible clinicians (2271/2841) completed CST, exceeding the 65% target.
- High clinician satisfaction reported for training quality, recommendation, and skill utilization.
- Post-training surveys indicated improved self-efficacy and reduced distress among clinicians.
Conclusions:
- Structured communication skills training (CST) can be effectively scaled across cancer centers.
- Successful implementation was facilitated by leadership support, incentives, and mandates.
- CST is crucial for enhancing goal-concordant care in oncology.
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