Evaluation of Attitudes to Learning Doctor-Patient Communication Skills in 427 Postgraduate Doctors Using the Communication Skills Attitude Scale (CSAS) Questionnaire.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Effective communication between doctors and patients is crucial for improving healthcare quality and ensuring patient safety. This study aimed to evaluate attitudes to learning doctor-patient communication skills in 427 postgraduate doctors, using the self-reported 26-item communication skills attitude scale (CSAS) questionnaire. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study was conducted online between October 2023 and May 2024 via the LimeSurvey platform, with 427 physicians (response rate: 21.35%) participating in specialist courses at the Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education in Warsaw. The survey used the Communication Skills Attitude Scale (CSAS), including 26 items divided into positive and negative affect scales. Responses were scored on a 5-point Likert scale, with negative attitude scale items reverse-scored, for a maximum score of 130 points. Descriptive statistics and sociodemographic analysis explored factors influencing attitudes. RESULTS Most participants (55.5%) were under 30 years of age, and 70% were women. Women demonstrated significantly more positive attitudes (M=52.53, SD=8.65) than men (M=50.65, SD=9.74; P=0.048). Physicians aged 41 to 50 years showed the most positive attitudes (M=55.78, SD=6.48), although age differences were not statistically significant (P=0.129). Divorced or separated participants had the highest scores (M=58.00, SD=6.08; P=0.010), while those with longer professional experience had more negative attitudes (P=0.004). CONCLUSIONS Sociodemographic factors, including sex, marital status, and professional experience, influenced attitudes toward learning communication skills. Training programs should consider these factors, to better meet the needs of diverse healthcare professionals.