Aile Hekimliği Uzmanlık Öğrencilerine Yönelik Refleksiyona Dayalı İletişim Becerileri Eğitim Programının Geliştirilmesi ve Etkisinin Değerlendirilmesi

Abstract

Development and Evaluation of a Reflection-Based Communication Skills Training Program for Family Medicine Residents, Hacettepe University Graduate School of Health Sciences Medical Education and Informatics, Doctor of Philosophy Thesis, Ankara, 2024. Effective communication is a core competency in family medicine and affects patient satisfaction, treatment adherence and health outcomes. In this mixed-methods study, a reflection-based communication skills training program for family medicine residents was developed and its effects were evaluated. A quasi-experimental design with qualitative and quantitative parts and pre-test and post-test assessments was used to compare a control group (n=7) that received no intervention with an experimental group (n=7) that participated in a 9-session training program. The training program was developed using the ADDIE instructional design approach. Quantitative data were collected using the Groningen Reflection Skills Scale (GRAS-TR-pg) and the Gap-Kalamazoo Communication Skills Assessment Form (Clinician), while qualitative data were collected through focus group interview with participant and patient satisfaction questionnaires. Quantitative findings revealed that the intervention group had a significant improvement in communication skills scores (p<0.01) and the effect size was large (r=0.86). However, there was no statistically significant increase in reflection skills for both groups. Qualitative findings showed a high level of satisfaction with the training program among the experimental group participants who reported increased awareness, empathy and communication skills. The findings emphasize the effectiveness of reflection-based communication skills training in improving communication skills of residents. However, the program needs to be further improved to effectively develop reflection skills. This study contributes to the understanding of the importance of effective communication skills training in postgraduate medical education and advocates the integration of reflection-based program development approaches to improve both communication and reflection skills of family medicine residents. This approach ensures that the provided medical care becomes more effective by being patient-centered. Keywords: family practice, postgraduate medical education, reflection, health communication