Using TV Shows to Teach Communication Skills in Medicine
Author Information
Author(s): Wong Roger Y, Saber Sadra S, Ma Irene, Roberts J Mark
Primary Institution: University of British Columbia
Hypothesis
Can excerpts from television shows effectively teach communication skills to internal medicine residents?
Conclusion
Using popular television shows to teach communication skills was successful in improving residents' understanding and comfort levels.
Supporting Evidence
- Residents' understanding of the Kalamazoo model improved from 23% to 93% after the session.
- Comfort levels in applying communication skills increased from 23% to 88% post-session.
- Statistical improvements were observed in 6 out of 7 competencies of the Kalamazoo model.
Takeaway
Doctors can learn to talk better with patients by watching TV shows and discussing what they see.
Methodology
Residents participated in a one-hour interactive session featuring TV show excerpts and completed pre- and post-tests on their understanding and comfort levels.
Potential Biases
Potential baseline differences between responders and non-responders may affect results.
Limitations
The study lacked a control group, was not randomized, and relied on subjective assessments.
Participant Demographics
64 residents from the internal medicine residency program at the University of British Columbia.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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