Improving communication with patients: Learning by doing

摘要

“Learning by doing” has been the mantra of clinical education since the days of Osler. Simulation (for example, in laparoscopy or in enhancing communication skills) is a relatively recent teaching innovation. It allows for a controlled setting and minimization of patient risk and discomfort. The hope for any form of simulation is that it will be an effective pedagogic tool, a valuable adjunct to experience with real patients.1 Teaching physicians the skills to communicate well with patients at the end of life is a worthy goal, because it is profoundly beneficial to patients when done correctly.2,3