Self-appraisal of communication skills in phase I medical students – A comprehensive analysis

Abstract

Background: Effective communication is the cornerstone of quality medical care. Competency-based medical education emphasizes the importance of communication skills training in medical education. Training sessions yield optimal results when participants are cognizant of their specific communication gaps. This study explores the self-appraisal of communication skills among phase one medical students at Jubilee Mission Medical College and Research Institute. Aims and Objectives: The primary objectives of this study are to assess the self-appraisal of communication skills among phase I medical students and to identify specific areas of strength and weakness in various aspects of communication. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study at the institution included all 1st-year medical students. Students self-assessed their communication skills using the quest verbal questionnaire, which examined their aptitude in various aspects of communication such as listening, acceptance, empathy, and conveying clear messages. Statistical analysis was performed to assess and categorize skill levels. Results: Analysis indicated that a significant majority of students (74.74%) identified themselves as having good communication skills, with varying strengths in different aspects of communication. Notably, acceptance was a prominent skill among participants, while sending clear messages appeared to be an area needing improvement. Conclusions: The present study identified the gaps in their listening skills and sending clear messages and based on these results, medical education programs might contemplate the incorporation of hands-on communication skill exercises and early-stage simulations within the curriculum. Attitudes, ethics, and communications sessions on communication skills when planned for students of different phases would be beneficial, for both the facilitators and students, if self-appraisal of students’ skills is done.