Communication Skills Training in Pediatric Oncology: Moving Beyond Role Modeling

Abstract

Communication is central to pediatric oncology care. Pediatric oncologists disclose life-threatening diagnoses, explain complicated treatment options, and endeavor to give honest prognoses, to maintain hope, to describe treatment complications, and to support families in difficult circumstances ranging from loss of function and fertility to treatment-related or disease-related death. However, parents, patients, and providers report substantial communication deficits. Poor communication outcomes may stem, in part, from insufficient communication skills training, overreliance on role modeling, and failure to utilize best practices. This review summarizes evidence for existing methods to enhance communication skills and calls for revitalizing communication skills training within pediatric oncology.

Keywords: childhood cancer; communication skills; communication skills training; fellowship training; graduate medical education; medical education; pediatric oncology.

FIGURE 1

Communication skill-building strategies and physician outcomes mapped to the experiential learning cycle White boxes contain teaching strategies. Trapezoid boxes show physician outcomes. Vertical axis depicts the continuum of perception from abstract conceptualization to concrete experience.[57] The horizontal axis depicts the continuum of transformation from reflection to active experimentation.[57] Curved double-headed arrows indicate that the cycle is bidirectional. Repeated cycles are required for continued growth.