To evaluate teaching exposure and sentiment when diagnosing and treating functional neurologic disorder (FND) among neurology trainees.

FND is a commonly encountered diagnosis, with an estimated 10-15 per 100,000 Americans being diagnosed with this condition. Given the ubiquitous nature of FND and its impact on patient quality of life, accurate diagnosis and treatment are essential. Additionally, one of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) milestones for neurology trainees is leading a discussion on FND with patients.

A total of 106 neurology trainees received the survey and 30%(n=32) completed it. Of these, 34%(n=11) had received structured training on how to deliver a diagnosis of FND during their training, as lecture 82%(n=9), simulation training 36%(n=4) and/or reading material 18%(n=2). In clinical practice, 91%(n=29) of trainees had delivered the diagnosis of FND, but 72%(n=23) felt uncertain when diagnosing FND. 79%(n=23) encountered negative patient responses. When approaching a patient with FND, 72%(n=21) reported apprehension with the most common concerns being: the patient will be dissatisfied with their care 81%(n=17), worry that the patient may be disappointed in them as a clinician or offending the patient each 71%(n=15), and guilt for providing a potentially stigmatizing diagnosis 52%(n=11). All stated they emphasize treatment options during the visit in which the diagnosis is given.