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

Summary

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. Mixed methods design was used to perform the needs assessment. A pre-and post survey was administered to workshop 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. There was a significant improvement postworkshop in resident reported scores on their ability to manage their emotions during difficult conversations (p = 0.03). There is an opportunity to improve
communication skills training in ophthalmology residency through formalized curriculum.