Using the visual arts to teach clinical excellence

Abstract

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Introduction: The authors conducted a review of the literature to identify curricula that incorporate the visual arts into undergraduate, graduate, and continuing medical education to facilitate the teaching of clinical excellence.

Methods: The authors searched the PubMed and ERIC electronic databases in May 2017, using search terms such as “paintings,” “visual arts,” and “medical education,” along with terms corresponding to previously defined domains of clinical excellence. Search results were reviewed to select articles published in the highest impact general medicine and medical education journals describing the use of visual arts to teach clinical excellence to all levels of medical trainees and practicing physicians.

Results: Fifteen articles met inclusion criteria. Each article addressed at least one of the following clinical excellence domains: communication and interpersonal skills, humanism and professionalism, diagnostic acumen, and knowledge. No articles described the use of the visual arts to teach the skillful negotiation of the health care system, a scholarly approach to clinical practice, or a passion for patient care.

Conclusions: This review supports the use of visual arts in medical education to facilitate the teaching of clinical excellence. However, research designed specifically to evaluate the impact of the visual arts on clinical excellence outcomes is needed.