Can Communication Skills Be Taught in a Multidisciplinary Maternal Fetal Care Center?

Objective: To evaluate a structured communication training for providers performing prenatal counseling for patients presenting to a multidisciplinary maternal fetal care center.

Method: Providers who care for pregnant patients with high-risk fetal conditions participated in two half-day virtual training sessions using the VitalTalk methodology. In each session, providers learned the methodology and then participated in role-play with standardized actors. Anonymous pre- and post-surveys were administered electronically via REDCap. Participants were asked about their preparedness and comfort performing communication skills and leading challenging conversations specific to prenatal counseling.

Results: 24 multidisciplinary providers participated. Clinical and prognostic uncertainty and balancing honesty with hope were the top factors making conversations difficult. Following the course, there was a significant increase in preparedness and comfort to perform all queried skills. Most providers felt a refresher course yearly or every 2-3 years would be helpful.

Conclusions: An interactive, structured communication course can improve preparedness and comfort to deliver serious news in a cohort of multidisciplinary providers who care for pregnant patients with high-risk fetal conditions.