METHODS: A qualitative descriptive research study using in-depth semi-structured interviews was conducted with Year 3 medical students and patients to study their experiences at a primary care clinic, over two weeks. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Braun and Clark's thematic analysis. Both students' and patients' views on communication skills were obtained.
RESULTS: Three themes were established based on student-patient communication in primary care settings: socio-cultural elements in student-patient communication; cognitive and emotional challenges for effective communication; and enablers for effective student-patient communication. The themes and sub-themes describe both students and patients valuing each other as individuals with socio-cultural beliefs and needs.
CONCLUSION: The findings can be used to structure new approaches to communication skills education that is patient-centred, culturally sensitive, and informed by patients. Communication skills training should encourage students to prioritise and reflect more on patient perspectives while educators should engage patients to inform and assess the outcomes.