Peer discussion on training physicians to be competent communicators: support for a multiple discourse approach

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Communication Skills Training
• Physician Professional Development

Background:

• Medical schools are reviewing communication training methods for interns and residents.
• Faculty beliefs significantly shape the approach to teaching physician communication skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore medical educators' perspectives on training physicians to be competent communicators.
• To identify themes influencing educators' views on communication education's importance and effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• A focus group was conducted with faculty at a large southeastern medical college.
• Discussions centered on current communication training practices and underlying assumptions.

Main Results:

• Educators often perceive communication as an innate talent rather than a learned skill.
• Beliefs that courtesy equals good communication and experience is the best teacher were prevalent.
• Physicians communicate with diverse audiences beyond patients, including healthcare providers and administrators.

Conclusions:

• Addressing educators' foundational beliefs is crucial for effective communication skills training.
• A multiple discourse approach may be beneficial for developing medical communication courses.