Communication Skills Training in Ophthalmology: Results of a Needs Assessment and Pilot Training Program.

OBJECTIVE:To conduct a needs assessment to identify gaps in communication skills training in ophthalmology residency programs and to use these results to pilot a communication workshop that prepares residents for difficult conversations. DESIGN:A mixed-methods design was used to perform the needs assessment. A pre-and postsurvey was administered to workshop participants. SETTING:Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School (HMS), Department of Ophthalmology. PARTICIPANTS:HMS ophthalmology residents from postgraduate years 2-4 participated in the needs assessment and the workshop. Ophthalmology residency program directors in the United States participated in national needs assessment. METHODS:Ophthalmology program directors across the United States were queried on their perception of resident communication skills training through an online survey. A targeted needs assessment in the form of a narrative exercise captured resident perspectives on communication in ophthalmology from HMS residents. A group of HMS residents participated in the pilot workshop and a pre- and postsurvey was administered to participants to assess its effectiveness. RESULTS:The survey of program directors yielded a response rate of 40%. Ninety percent of respondents agreed that the communication skills training in their programs could be improved. Fifteen of 24 residents (62%) completed the needs assessment. Qualitative analysis of the narrative material revealed four themes; (1) differing expectations, (2) work role and environment, (3) challenges specific to ophthalmology, and (4) successful strategies adopted. Nine residents participated in the workshop. There was a significant improvement post-workshop in resident reported scores on their ability to manage their emotions during difficult conversations (p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS:There is an opportunity to improve communication skills training in ophthalmology residency through formalized curriculum.