Breaking bad news: A randomized controlled trial to test a novel interactive course for medical students using blended learning.

Objective: Breaking bad news (BBN) is challenging for physicians and patients and specific communication strategies aim to improve these situations. This study evaluates whether an E-learning assignment could improve medical students' accurate recognition of BBN communication techniques.

Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted at the University of Basel.

Efficacy of an internet-based learning module and small-group debriefing on trainees' attitudes and communication skills toward patients with substance use disorders: results of a cluster randomized controlled trial.

Purpose: To examine whether an Internet-based learning module and small-group debriefing can improve medical trainees' attitudes and communication skills toward patients with substance use disorders (SUDs).

Method: In 2011-2012, 129 internal and family medicine residents and 370 medical students at two medical schools participated in a cluster randomized controlled trial, which assessed the effect of adding a two-part intervention to the SUDs curricula. The intervention included a self-directed, media-rich Internet-based learning module and a small-group, faculty-led debriefing.

eLearning to enhance physician patient communication: a pilot test of "doc.com" and "WebEncounter" in teaching bad news delivery.

Background: Physician-patient communication skills help determine the nature and quality of diagnostic information elicited from patients, the quality of the physician's counseling, and the patient's adherence to treatment. In spite of their importance, surveys have demonstrated a wide variability and deficiencies in the teaching of these skills.

Aim: Describe two specific methodologies for teaching physician-patient communication skills developed at our institution and pilot test them for effectiveness.