Dealing with angry or frustrated patients has become a common challenge for healthcare professionals. To better equip doctors to handle such situations, a British company, in collaboration with the Royal Society of Medicine, has developed a virtual reality (VR) training programme. Bodyswaps, the VR company, has created simulations enhanced by AI software to improve doctors’ abilities to identify anger signals, respond appropriately, remain calm, and show empathy. Using VR headsets, doctors and medical students practise conversing with virtual patients in emotionally charged scenarios. AI software analyses their speech, non-verbal communication, and defusing or aggravating actions. Pre- and post-training self-reflection questionnaires gauge confidence levels. The initiative aims to address the lack of formal training in communication skills and enhance patients’ experiences while supporting healthcare professionals’ well-being. A post-pandemic survey revealed increased levels of patient abuse, highlighting the relevance of such training programmes.

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