[Results of training in communication skills at the First Medical School of Charles University in Prague].

Consistent with new trends in medical training the First Medical Faculty, Charles University Prague included in its curriculum of general medicine a mandatory programme devoted to communication skills. The main objective is to teach students to establish valuable contact with the patient and elucidate the problem presented by the patient. Another objective is to show the therapeutic potential of a well conducted interview. All hitherto trained students who attended the classes on communication skills acquired within the repertoire of skills used in discussions with patients the skill of a non-directive interview focused on elucidation of the problem on which the patient saw his doctor. It proved possible to demonstrate that integration of theoretical knowledge into practical procedures used in diagnosis, treatment and supportive psychotherapy of somatic and psychosomatic diseases and reactive conditions is a relatively demanding and long-term process which can be mastered during training which uses acting (simulated doctor, simulated patient) and feedback by videorecording.