Determining presentation skills gaps among healthcare professionals

Abstract

Healthcare professionals frequently communicate complex medical information among colleagues and students. This paper aims to determine gaps in healthcare professionals’ presentation skills and identify barriers to improving. Eighty-eight individuals at a Midwest Academic Medical Center completed a survey that consisted of three parts: (1) respondents’ current presentation slide deck, (2) respondents’ perceptions of their current presentation skills, and (3) barriers to and motivations for improving their presentation skills. A mixed-methods approach was used to collect and analyze data. Respondents used bullet points and text the most (74%), and videos the least in their presentations (51%). When assessing respondents’ perceptions of their current presentation skills, they rated themselves the lowest as a storyteller (median = 6/10) and as an overall presenter (median = 6/10). The biggest barrier reported was “lack of training on best practices” (58%). Respondents reported “interested in improving” and “enhance opportunities” as their main motivations for improving presentation skills. Four themes emerged from the open-ended survey items: Practical tips and best practices, Ability to communicate effectively, Professional development, and Practice opportunities. Effective presentation skills should be included in every healthcare professionals faculty development curriculum. This is especially crucial for junior faculty members to ensure their continued success.