The Evaluation of Training Oral and Maxillofacial Trainees in Head and Neck Cancer Doctor–Patient Communication Using the Patient Concerns Inventory

Head and neck cancer has a significant impact on a patient’s health related quality of life (HRQOL). The head and neck specific Patient Concerns Inventory (PCI-HN) has been utilised to enhance doctor-patient dialogue in routine consultations. To date there has been no formal training for oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) surgical trainees in the use of the PCI-HN in consultations. The aim of the study was to evaluate training for OMFS surgical trainees in the use of the PCI-HN, using simulated follow-up HNC consultations, in order to improve doctor-patient communication skills. Material and methods: Ten oral and maxillofacial surgical trainees completed actor simulated HNC consultations before and after training. A study-specific mark scheme was developed based on the ComOn-Coaching rating scales and used to score the doctor-patient interaction. A group debrief afterwards explored the trainee’s experiences of the training and consultations. Results: All trainees showed an improvement in doctor-patient communication scores following their training. Overall, the six participants who were Specialty registrars, year 3 (ST3) or above, scored higher, than the four Specialty registrars, year 1–2 (ST1-2). The scores were higher if fewer PCI-HN items were discussed (3–4). The most frequently avoided PCI-HN items were intimacy and relationships. The trainees considered that their training was useful for organising their consultations and for providing holistic care. Conclusion: Although training improved surgeon-patient communication, further evaluation is required with a larger number of trainees and actual consultations in clinic.