A pilot randomized controlled trial on the effectiveness of inclusion of a distant learning component into empathy training

BACKGROUND Studies have shown a gradual decline in empathy of medical trainees with increasing years of education. METHODS to augment empathy show some promise, but the most effective methods are both expensive and time consuming. To assess effectiveness of communication skills training program as a distant learning method in improving empathy. METHODS Fourteen first year residents of psychiatry were randomly allocated to either participate in a two day workshop on communications skills (attending group) or to watch the videotape of the first day and participate in the second day (distance learning group). Assessments included Jefferson Scale of Empathy (JSE) and objective assessment of empathy (OAE) during a simulated interview, before and 3 months after the training. RESULTS The empathy was significantly increased in the attending group as measured by OAE. The score of JSE also increased in the attending group but did not reach a significance level. No increase in empathy was seen in the distance learning group. CONCLUSION Watching the videotape of the workshop is not effective in improving empathy of residents. More interactive methods should be sought if we plan to use distance learning methods in enhancement of empathy.