Teaching and Assessing Doctor-Patient Communication Using Remote Standardized Patients and Skype: Feedback From Medical Residents

• In Event: Improving Education Through Technological Innovation

Abstract

Recent initiatives in medical education have focused on expanding the scope of competency assessment to include critical elements such as doctor-patient communications. This pilot study evaluated resident physicians’ perceptions of teaching and assessing doctor-patient communication skills using a web-based format. Fifty nine resident physicians completed doctor-patient clinical encounters conducted with standardized patients connected remotely via SKYPE. Quantitative and qualitative data included residents’ responses to Post-Exercise Surveys and their responses during focus group sessions. As a pilot, the study provided valuable information, especially regarding feedback received, the technology used and possible uses of this type of assessment in medical education. Future studies will focus on refinements in technology and alternative topics for use in remote clinical encounters.

Authors

• Dot Horber, National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners

• Erik Langenau, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

• Elizabeth K. Kachur, Medical Education Development