Feasibility and Acceptability of an Online Oncologist Training to Optimize Oncologist–Patient Communication and Value-Concordant Care in Advanced Cancer

Login S. George, Biren Saraiya, Kelly M. Trevino, Kiersten Pflueger, Sydney Voelbel, Erin K. Tagai, Suzanne M. Miller, Andrew S. Epstein, Paul Duberstein

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction: This pilot study tested the feasibility and acceptability of a low-resource-intensive scalable online communication training designed to improve oncologists’ skills in prognostic and value-concordant care discussions with advanced cancer patients. Methods: The training consisted of on-demand videos on how to convey prognostic information, manage patient emotions, and elicit patient values and incorporate these values into treatment decision making. Post-intervention, oncologists reported on their perceptions of the training. Results: Fifteen oncologists were enrolled, of whom, 13 completed the training, and 14 completed post-intervention interviews. Most oncologists reported the intervention was acceptable: 92.9% indicated the intervention was ‘‘moderately’’ to ‘‘very helpful’’; 78.6% rated it as ‘‘somewhat’’ to ‘‘very much’’ impactful on their communication with patients. Conclusions: The present self-paced online communication training was acceptable to oncologists, supporting additional research, including evaluating intervention efficacy for improving oncologists’ communication skills and value-concordant care in advanced cancer.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1386-1390
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Palliative Medicine
Volume26
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 2023

Keywords

  • advance care planning
  • advanced cancer
  • end-of-life care
  • goals of care
  • prognostic communication
  • serious illness
  • Humans
  • Physician-Patient Relations
  • Oncologists/psychology
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Pilot Projects
  • Neoplasms/therapy
  • Communication

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