Effectiveness of a Calgary-Cambridge model-based communication skills training for paediatric trainees in Sri Lanka: A nationwide pre-post intervention study using observed practices

Abstract

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of a Calgary-Cambridge model-based communication skills training program for postgraduate paediatric trainees in Sri Lanka.METHODS A pre-post intervention study was conducted among 133 paediatric trainees across Sri Lanka. The training program focused on relationship-building, information gathering, and information giving. Communication skills were assessed using an OSCE with simulated patients and a 12-item checklist. Paired t-tests were used to analyze score differences.RESULTS Significant improvements were observed across all domains. Relationship-building scores increased from 13.5 to 23, information gathering from 12.6 to 20.2, and information giving from 13.3 to 24.8 (p < 0.01 for all). Relationship-building correlated positively with information gathering (r = 0.626) and giving (r = 0.600, p < 0.01). Trainees with prior communication training scored higher post-intervention (mean difference = 10.5, p = 0.019). No gender differences were observed. CONCLUSION The Calgary-Cambridge model-based training program effectively enhanced communication skills among Sri Lankan paediatric trainees. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Incorporating structured communication skills training into postgraduate curricula is essential, particularly in culturally diverse medical settings.