Religious and Spiritual Assessment: A Standardized Patient Curriculum Intervention

Background: Most patients want to discuss religious and spiritual needs with their physicians, but only 3% of the physicians ask. Method: Medical students (n = 110) participated in a sensitizing experience with standardized patients (SPs) who presented with religious and spiritual concerns. Results: Thirteen students misperceived their simulation experience, believing they had discussed their SP's religious and spiritual needs, whereas their SPs stated they had not. At 4-month followup, religious assessment improved; however, retention was lower at 12-month follow-up. Conclusions: This curriculum is effective for large groups; however, the change in behavior was short term. Subsequent intervention may improve retention.