Enseignement de la communication aux internes de médecine générale de la faculté de médecine, Paris Sud.

Background : The teaching of communication to medical students has long been neglected in France, in spite of its prominence in the qualifications specified by the university curriculum. The General Practice Department of the Faculty of Medicine at Paris Sud has implemented in 2014 a mandatory program on the three years curriculum medical of post-graduate specialized studies. This program includes theoretical courses and simulation exercises resting on role-playing. Goal: The aim of the study is to assess the impact of the therapeutic communication program on first-year students, assess the appropriateness of the program and report student assessment of teaching. Methods: This quantitative study was carried out three months after the first training session. Students in first year were asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire to assess their knowledge in therapeutic communication, their ability to the implementation in hospital practice and evaluation of this program. Results: Among the 78 students of first year 77 completed the survey. The mastery of theoretical knowledge in communication by students proved disappointing. However, three-quarter of the students felt comfortable in simulation exercises, noticed changes in their communication behavior at the end of this teaching, think they can incorporate these tools into their practices, and found this type of program helpful. Conclusion: At the end of the first of three teaching therapeutic communication sessions, important gaps in student knowledge remained. However, residents acknowledge a need and a willingness to take this type of training and apply the teachings in their future practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]