Long-term effects of empathy training in surgery residents: a one year follow-up study

Abstract

Objectives: This study is a 1-year follow-up investigation of the retention of the knowledge, attitudes and skills acquired after empathy training.Methods: Eight otolaryngology residents completed 5 assessment measures before and after empathy training and at 1-year. They attended a 90-minute focus group assessing clinical usefulness of the training, attitudes and factors that affect empathy.Results: Qualitative analysis revealed a positive response to the training and application of skills to clinical practices. Quantitative analyses suggest improvement in empathy after training was maintained at 1-year follow-up (p = 0.05). Knowledge of the neurobiology and physiology of empathy remained significantly greater than before the training (p = 0.007). Conclusions: Qualitative data indicate that the training program was well-received and helpful and follow-up focus groups provided physicians with opportunities for self-reflection and support from peers. Quantitative analysis demonstrated that improvement in self-reported empathy and objective knowledge of the neurobiology of emotions persist at 1-year follow-up. Accordingly, we recommend that empathy training and follow-up booster sessions become a standard component of residency training.