Accepted Type
Oral
Code
OE2-2-1
Acceptance Declaration
Accept
Additional Information
I declare I have no actual or potential conflict of interest in relation to this program.
Was this work accepted for CCME 2020?
no
Category
General Call (Workshop, Oral Presentation, Poster Presentation)
Type
Oral
Sub Type
Education Innovation
Will the presenter be a:
Jr. Faculty (less than 5 years in practice)
Affiliation
Considered for Poster
yes
Title
Communication skills: Going beyond eye contact
Length of Presentation
Background/Purpose
Traditional medical education communication curricula typically focus on the fundamental tasks of communication (lean in, have an open posture, make eye contact, etc.). There are several established frameworks, such as the Kalamazoo consensus statement, that describe "essential" elements in physician-patient communication. However, many of these frameworks only briefly and superficially elude to broader concepts such as patient centered care or cultural humility. While the mechanics of communication are necessary, we argue that focusing on these process tasks is not sufficient for a holistic communication skills curriculum.
Summary of the Innovation
The first year Communication Skills program at UBC was redesigned recognizing that equity concepts can play more of a role in achieving effective communication than conversational mechanics could ever accomplish. The goal was to move beyond the "how" methodology of communication frameworks into a more reflective space that acknowledges and empowers patients. Theoretical concepts highlighting intersectionality and trauma informed care were woven through the existing 8-week suite; time was designated within each weekly small group session to discuss pre-assigned articles in a "journal club" format. The aim in highlighting these concepts foundationally allows learners to link the ideas covered to their experiences in patient care going forwards and enact social change.
Conclusion
Tutors and students alike received the new curriculum with positivity and interest. Operationalizing social accountability within a curricula proves difficult to move from theory to practice. This integration into communication skills is one proposed method. We want to cultivate young physicians to become those who practice with thoughtful perspectives that address social determinants of health.
Keyword 1
Communication Skills
Keyword 2
Medical Students
Keyword 3
Equity
Level of Training
Undergraduate
Abstract Themes
Curriculum
Curriculum
General
Additional Theme (First choice)
Undergraduate
Additional Theme (Second Choice)
Professionalism
Additional Theme (Third Choice)
Physician & Medical Student Health and Well-being
Authors
Presenter
Samantha Stasiuk
Term 1
Yes
Term 2
Yes
Term 3
Yes
Term 4
Yes
Term 5
Yes
