Introducing Communication Skills Training among Interns using Attitude, Ethics, and Communication Module

BACKGROUND: Communication skills are the backbone for patient care services such as patient interviews, counseling the patient, and explaining treatment options. The present study was conceived to evaluate the communication training program and perceptions of medical interns and faculty regarding the same. METHODOLOGY: Sixty medical interns were included in this cross-sectional study. Training on communication skills was imparted which was later assessed on the basis of Kalamazoo scale. Attitude of the interns regarding communication skill training was assessed using Rees and Sheard Scale. The attitude of faculty regarding introduction of communication skill was also assessed. RESULTS: The mean score on Kalamazoo Consensus Scale was 19.65 ± 4.97 with a range of 10–29. Females had a higher score (21.09 ± 5.80) as compared to males (17.88 ± 3.21), but this was not statistically significant (P = 0.157). The mean score for positive and negative attitude scale was 59.15 ± 5.51 and 25.20 ± 9.60. CONCLUSION: The ability to communicate effectively is a core competency expected of medical graduates and communication skills training of medical students and interns with the help of didactic lectures, role plays, and videos, etc., can go a long way in improving their communication skills.