Doctor-patient communication skills training in mainland China: a systematic review of the literature.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To conduct a systematic review of studies on doctor-patient communication skills training (CST) for medical students and physicians in mainland China. METHODS: We retrieved articles from six electronic databases, and searched additional eligible papers by checking reference lists. Chinese or English-language studies focused on CST and implemented in mainland China were applied to the pre-determined criteria. Articles included were further reviewed under the following categories: participant; training strategy; assessment; and outcome. RESULTS: 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. 90% of the CST improved trainees' communication skills using a strategy which included a didactic component combined with practical rehearsal and feedback. The duration of training varied substantially. A lack of enhancement in empathy, and the use of open-ended questions were reported. 83% of the assessment instruments were self-designed and most lacked reliability and validity testing. Only two of the included studies evaluated patient satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of included studies attained statistically significant improvements. Chinese doctors and medical students' communication skills can be enhanced through CST. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Future studies in China should place stronger emphasis on the development of training strategies, validation of the assessment instruments, and evaluation of patient satisfaction affected by CST.