Enhancing competence in breaking bad news: a multidisciplinary workshop intervention for residents

Objectives This study evaluates the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary, workshop-based intervention designed to enhance residents’ competence in delivering bad news. Methods Between March 2022 and September 2024, 50 residents enrolled in the standardized training program at the Clinical Oncology Center, The University of Hong Kong–Shenzhen Hospital, participated in a structured educational intervention. A multidisciplinary faculty team – including clinical oncologists, oncology nurses, and a medical social worker – developed and implemented a curriculum comprising three core components: (1) evidence-based communication frameworks (e.g., the SPIKES protocol), (2) simulated patient encounters with real-time feedback, and (3) reflective group debriefings. Competence was measured using pre- and post-intervention self-assessments with a validated 20-item Breaking Bad News Competency Scale (BBN-CS), supplemented by semi-structured interviews exploring perceived learning outcomes. Results Post-intervention scores showed statistically significant improvement (80.56 ± 12.58 vs. baseline 74.13 ± 10.55, p<0.001), with 13 of 20 competency domains demonstrating significant gains (p<0.05). Qualitative analysis revealed three dominant themes: (1) improved emotional preparedness for difficult conversations (reported by 82 % of participants), (2) increased awareness of interdisciplinary collaboration (68 %), and (3) enhanced patient-centered communication strategies (76 %). Notably, attitudinal changes toward delivering bad news were more pronounced than perceived improvements in knowledge or skills. Conclusions This multidisciplinary workshop significantly improved residents’ competence and professional attitudes in breaking bad news. The integration of simulation-based training and reflective practice offers a promising pedagogical model for communication skills training in residency programs.