Developing and implementing a fellow-driven communication skills curriculum in hematology/oncology training.

Abstract

e21030 Background: Effective communication is essential in hematology/oncology (HO) for trust-building, shared decision-making, and simplifying complex medical information. While palliative care communication training is emphasized, formal training in delivering technical, disease-specific information is often lacking. A needs assessment survey revealed gaps in communication skills training (CST) and strong fellow support for formal CST, prompting the development of a peer-driven CST curriculum rooted in real-world clinical challenges. Methods: At our university-based, medium sized fellowship program (13 fellows), senior fellows designed a four-session curriculum based on surveys, interviews, and literature review (table). Content emphasized equitable care by addressing language barriers, cultural differences, and health literacy challenges. Guided by the deliberate practice framework, 1-hour interactive workshops were held every 3–4 weeks. Participation was voluntary and food was provided. Workshops were moderated by fellows and were based on real-world scenarios using rolling role-play (breaking scenarios into mini challenges), with real-time feedback from faculty and peers. Guest HO and palliative care faculty provided practical communication tips, and sessions ended with actionable communication pearls to foster skill development. Results: Curriculum evaluation is underway and follows the Kirkpatrick framework. Learner reaction is assessed through pre-/post-workshop surveys in addition to an end-of-year survey. Behavior will be measured via direct observation in the clinical setting, and impact will be assessed using patient feedback. Results will be available at the time of presentation. Conclusions: This innovative, fellow-designed CST curriculum addresses critical gaps in HO fellowship training, emphasizing real-life challenges and shared decision making. Its structured, interactive format is feasible and adaptable to other programs. By equipping fellows with advanced communication skills, this curriculum has the potential to improve fellow learning and patient care in HO practice. Session Title Objectives Effective Communication in The First Oncology Visit Define roles, simplify cancer biology, clarify treatment intent, and address fertility preservation and genetic testing. Communicating Effectively in Advanced Cancer Care Discuss advanced diagnoses, prognosis, patient goals, alternative medicine, second opinion requests, and transitions to palliative care. Navigating Treatment Decisions and Shared Decision Making Discuss medical literature, clinical trial options, shared decision making, treatment paradigms, and smoking cessation / lifestyle modifications. Unique Communication Challenges in Hematology Discuss complex diagnostics, advanced therapies (HSCT and CAR-T), and management of indolent malignancies.