FP1699 : Promoting Empathy in ophthalmology postgraduates: Role play – an effective and interesting method

Dr.Kirti Singh, K04958

Aim:Promote & assess empathetic communication in ophthalmology postgraduates (PG) using role plays

Methods: 39 PG were sensitized to empathetic communication using empathy sensitizing module (ESM) comprising of 5 illustrative role plays. Impact was assessed by self-assessment using Jefferson scale of empathy (JSE) and external rating using Non participant observation (NPO) over 4 months in real life patient encounters.

Results: Empathy understanding during patient communication improved by 90%. Increase in self-rated JSE score from 96 to 107 (max 140), and externally rated empathy (NPO) from 29 to 39(max 55), was highly significant, p<0.001. Thematic analysis of focus group discussions with core faculty& role playing undergraduates, revealed lack of regular reinforcement and role model sensitization to be key aspects leading to attrition of ESM impact. Conclusions: Empathetic communication can be taught by contextual training, with role play being an effective method.