Evaluation & Research

Evidence-based results

IHC has published evaluative research that measured the impact of IHC workshops and professional services on physician communication behavior specific to empathic communication (Bonvicini, et al., 2009) and physician and patient satisfaction (Haskard et al., 2008). In addition, IHC has collected post-workshop data from workshop learners to evaluate the impact of our educational programs on selected communication techniques learned in each specific workshop. This is accomplished by asking all workshop learners to complete a written behavioral plan which identifies two techniques acquired during the workshop that they will practice in their patient interactions. These forms are collected and then sent back to the learners 6 weeks later. This “reminder” includes a link to an anonymous survey to assess learners’ application of the techniques in actual practice with observable effect. Since 2008, 75% of responders have reported a high rate of application of newly-learned techniques to their clinical practice. Sixty-six percent report increasing their listening time with patients and report higher personal as well as patient satisfaction.

Several researchers (Beach et al., 2004; Lin et al., 2001; Tongue et al., 2005) have conducted quantitiative and qualitative research and published articles utilizing IHC communication models and resources. IHC staff and consultants have considerable experience and expertise in the evaluation of clinician-patient communication skills. Their professional services can also assist with research design, data collection and analysis. We are particularly interested in opportunities for collaborative evaluation and research projects in clinician-patient and healthcare team communication.