Provider Communication Skill Training

Provider communication skill training is an approach in which the healthcare professional who provides services to the patient is trained to improve communication skills. Improved communication with the patient is proposed to have a positive effect on the patient’s symptoms and outcomes. Improved provider communication skills may improve assessment of the patient and the provider’s ability to facilitate effective communication by the patient, thereby enhancing symptom management. The effect of communication skill training to providers in cancer care has been examined for its effect on patient anxiety and depression and on caregiver strain and burden.