Barriers to Cultivating Humanistic Physicians in Clinical Settings

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Unveiling the Hurdles in Cultivating Humanistic Physicians in the Clinical Setting: An Exploratory Study
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Rita Mustika, Diantha Soemantri


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Unveiling the Hurdles in Cultivating Humanistic Physicians in the Clinical Setting: An Exploratory Study

Year: 2020 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2020.27.3.12

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The cultivation of humanistic physicians has become increasingly critical in medical education. As healthcare evolves, there is a growing recognition that physicians must embody not only biomedical knowledge but also empathy, integrity, and a patient-centered approach to care. This study investigates the challenges faced in nurturing such humanistic qualities among medical students, residents, and educators within clinical environments. Understanding these obstacles is key to developing effective educational strategies that promote humanism in medicine.

The Role of Clinical Teachers in Fostering Humanism

One of the significant findings of the study is the pivotal role that clinical teachers play as role models in the development of humanistic values among medical students. The study identified that students observe and often emulate the behaviors of their instructors and peers, which can either promote or hinder the development of humanistic qualities. Influential teaching methods such as mentoring, feedback, and structured learning environments were highlighted as essential in shaping these values. However, negative role models and a less supportive learning atmosphere in some clinical settings were noted as substantial barriers to cultivating physicians who exemplify compassion and empathy towards patients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the urgent need for humanistic physicians in modern healthcare necessitates a multi-faceted approach to medical education. It is vital for institutions to create supportive environments that encourage humanistic interactions and to utilize diverse teaching methods that resonate with the current generation of medical students. Addressing the barriers identified in this study, such as the presence of negative role models and an unsupportive learning climate, is crucial for the successful cultivation of humanistic physicians who can effectively meet the complex needs of their patients. Implementing these changes will help ensure that medical education remains focused not only on clinical competencies but also on the essential humanistic values that underpin effective patient care.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the importance of cultivating humanistic physicians in medical education?

Cultivating humanistic physicians is essential as it nurtures empathy, compassion, and professionalism. These values significantly influence healthcare quality, enhancing patient relationships and overall care, which is crucial in today's healthcare environment.

What are some challenges in nurturing humanistic physicians?

Challenges include negative role models, a non-supportive learning environment, and students' varying personal backgrounds. These factors can hinder the development of humanistic qualities needed for effective patient care.

How can role models impact the cultivation of humanistic values?

Role models, particularly clinical teachers and peers, significantly influence students' behaviors. Positive role modeling fosters humanistic characteristics, while negative behaviors can convey unprofessionalism, affecting how students approach patient care.

What methods are effective in teaching humanism in medical settings?

Effective methods include grand lectures, small group discussions, role play, and reflective practices. These approaches encourage active engagement and allow students to learn humanistic principles through interaction and feedback.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Barriers to Cultivating Humanistic Physicians in Clinical Settings”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Learning:
Learning refers to the acquisition and understanding of new knowledge, skills, and attitudes. In medical education, continuous learning is essential for developing humanistic values and competencies necessary for effective patient care. This process often involves active engagement through practices such as reflection, discussion, and feedback among peers and mentors.

2) Education:
Education encompasses a broad system of instruction and training aimed at developing knowledge, skills, and attitudes in individuals. In the context of medical education, it is critical to shaping future physicians who prioritize humanistic care and professionalism. Effective education fosters a conducive environment that cultivates empathy and compassionate patient interactions.

3) Teaching:
Teaching is the act of imparting knowledge, skills, or values to learners. In medical education, the role of teachers extends beyond mere knowledge transmission; effective teaching involves modeling humanistic qualities, providing constructive feedback, and creating a nurturing atmosphere that supports students' professional identity formation and ethical practice in medicine.

4) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the systematic examination and analysis of a subject or practice. These processes are especially significant in medical education, where students explore humanistic values through various methods, including reflective practices and observations within clinical settings, enhancing their understanding and capability to provide empathetic patient care.

5) Pir:
Peer denotes individuals of similar status or age, often in the same educational or professional environment. In medical education, peer feedback and support are vital for nurturing humanistic qualities. Interactions among peers foster a collaborative learning environment where students reinforce behaviors that prioritize empathy, compassion, and patient-centered care.

6) Disease:
Disease represents a condition that causes dysfunction or distress in an individual's body or mind. Understanding disease is integral to medicine; however, it’s critical for humanistic physicians to view patients holistically, addressing not only the medical aspects but also the psychological and social factors influencing patient experience and treatment outcomes.

7) Discussion:
Discussion involves the exchange of ideas or opinions about a particular topic. In medical education, discussions facilitate critical thinking, exploration of ethical dilemmas, and deeper understanding of humanistic principles. Such collaborative dialogues among students and faculty can help cultivate a compassionate approach to patient care, essential in the function of future physicians.

8) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to the information, understanding, and skills acquired through education or experience. In medical education, emphasis on both biomedical and humanistic knowledge is essential. A well-rounded understanding of medical knowledge combined with humanistic values prepares students to create meaningful connections with patients and to deliver comprehensive, compassionate care.

9) Medicine:
Medicine is the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. It encompasses not only the technical aspects of clinical care but also the art of human interaction. Humanistic values within medicine acknowledge the importance of empathy, compassion, and ethical considerations when interacting with patients and managing their health.

10) Observation:
Observation is the act of watching or monitoring behaviors, interactions, or processes. In medical education, keen observation is crucial for developing clinical skills and understanding humanistic approaches to patient care. Students learn to recognize subtle cues in patient communication, enhancing their ability to empathize and respond to individual patient needs effectively.

11) Developing:
Developing refers to the process of growth, evolution, or advancement in skills, knowledge, or attributes. In the context of medical education, developing humanistic qualities is essential for future physicians. This involves intentional efforts from both educators and students to cultivate empathy, communication skills, and professionalism within clinical practice.

12) Meeting:
Meeting indicates a coming together of individuals for a purpose, often involving discussion or collaboration. In medical education, meetings can occur between students and faculty, clinicians, or among peers, serving as platforms for exchanging ideas, providing feedback, and fostering humanistic relationships crucial for patient care training.

13) Life:
Life encompasses the existence and experiences of individuals, including the biological, emotional, and social aspects. Medical education acknowledges the multifaceted nature of life, emphasizing the importance of understanding patients' lived experiences. Emphasizing humanistic care conveys the significance of life-enhancing practices and holistic approaches to patient interactions.

14) Perception:
Perception involves the way individuals interpret and understand their environment and experiences. In medical education, cultivating awareness of biases and understanding diverse patient perspectives is vital. This awareness enhances communication and strengthens relationships, promoting a humanistic approach that respects each patient's unique context, needs, and experiences.

15) Suffering:
Suffering refers to the experience of pain, distress, or hardship. In medicine, recognizing suffering is crucial for humanistic care. Physicians must empathize with patients' emotional and physical struggles, fostering supportive environments that validate their experiences, alleviate distress, and promote healing through compassionate communication and individualized treatment.

16) Pursuing:
Pursuing indicates the act of seeking or striving toward a goal. In medical education, pursuing humanistic values involves actively seeking to cultivate empathy, compassion, and professionalism. Educators and students alike must be committed to fostering meaningful patient relationships and enhancing the quality of care, ultimately advancing the field of medicine.

17) Quality:
Quality refers to the standard or degree of excellence of a service, product, or process. In medical education, the quality of care provided to patients hinges on the humanistic values ingrained in training programs. High-quality care prioritizes empathy, ethical practice, and patient-centered approaches, ensuring that patients' holistic needs are met.

18) Reason:
Reason denotes logic or rational thought processes applied to decision-making and problem-solving. In the medical context, strong reasoning skills are crucial to diagnose patient issues correctly and ethically. Coupling reasoning with humanistic values allows physicians to understand the whole patient experience, tailoring care to individual needs effectively.

19) Pose:
Pose refers to presenting questions, challenges, or situations for consideration or action. In medical education, posing ethical dilemmas fosters critical thinking and promotes discussions around humanistic values. Engaging students to consider various perspectives prepares them to navigate complex interactions in patient care, enhancing their ability to practice compassionately.

20) Observing:
Observing is the act of carefully watching or monitoring behaviors and situations. In clinical settings, observing interactions between patients and healthcare providers is essential for medical students. This practice helps students develop essential skills in empathy and responsiveness and prepares them to engage positively and humanistically with future patients.

21) Listening:
Listening involves actively receiving and interpreting verbal and nonverbal communication. In medicine, effective listening is crucial for understanding patients’ needs and concerns. Physicians who listen attentively are better equipped to provide personalized care, as they can gather important information that shapes treatment plans and fosters strong patient-physician relationships.

22) Entering:
Entering refers to the act of initiating involvement in a situation or context. In medical education, entering the clinical phase signifies a new stage of learning where students actively engage with patient care. This transition emphasizes the importance of applying classroom knowledge within real-world clinical settings, reinforcing humanistic principles in practice.

23) Writing:
Writing is the process of composing text to convey information or express thoughts. In medical education, reflective writing serves as an essential tool for students to articulate their experiences, thoughts, and feelings regarding patient interactions. This practice deepens understanding and fosters personal growth, ultimately enhancing humanistic qualities in future physicians.

24) Anxiety:
Anxiety encompasses feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease. In medical education, anxiety can arise due to high-stakes assessments and the demands of clinical practice. Addressing anxiety through supportive environments and mentoring fosters resilience and encourages students to engage empathetically with patients facing their own challenges and worries.

25) Filling (Filled):
Filled denotes something that is completely occupied or full. In the medical context, clinical settings often become filled with tasks, pressures, and patient interactions. An overly filled schedule may hinder the ability of medical practitioners to engage in meaningful, humanistic care, highlighting the need for balance in workload and patient attention.

26) Table:
Table may refer to a graphical representation of data, but in the context of medical education, it symbolizes the organization and presentation of information regarding clinical practices. Structured tables can aid in comparing approaches or outcomes in humanistic education, enhancing understanding and application of knowledge in patient care.

27) Field:
Field refers to a specific area of study or professional practice. In medicine, the field encompasses multiple disciplines focused on human health. Engaging within this field requires understanding ethical issues, humanistic approaches, and the importance of empathetic care, which fosters better relationships between healthcare providers and their patients.

28) Visit:
Visit refers to the act of going to see someone or attending a place for a specific purpose. In medical education, patient visits are critical opportunities for students to observe and practice humanistic care. These experiences deepen understanding and emphasize the relational aspect of medicine that aids in treating the patient as a whole.

29) Fight:
Fight signifies the struggle against adverse conditions or challenges. In the medical context, it often represents the battle against diseases or health inequities. A humanistic approach encourages medical practitioners to advocate for their patients, fostering supportive relationships during difficult times and working collaboratively toward health improvement and patient empowerment.

30) House:
House may generally refer to a building for living but in medicine, it can symbolize the healthcare system's structure. Understanding the 'house' of healthcare encompasses the interconnected roles of various practitioners, policies, and practices that collectively contribute to patient care and treatment outcomes, inside and outside the clinical environment.

31) Line:
Line typically denotes a boundary or division. In medical education, lines can represent distinctions between roles, responsibilities, or professional ethics. Understanding these lines is critical for defining professional behaviors and humanistic principles that must be upheld in patient interactions and collaboration among healthcare providers.

32) Hand:
Hand symbolizes action, assistance, and care. In the medical field, a physician's 'hand' symbolizes the capacity to provide both physical and emotional support to patients. Demonstrating a compassionate hand fosters trust and strengthens patient relationships, emphasizing the essential human connection behind clinical care.

33) Post:
Post can indicate a position or a message shared for others to see. In medical education, posts may represent dissemination of knowledge, experiences, or research findings that serve to enhance collective understanding of humanistic values and best practices in patient interactions and clinical settings.

34) Pur:
Poor describes individuals lacking financial resources or facing socioeconomic disadvantages. In medical practice, understanding poverty is crucial, as it directly influences patients' access to care. Humanistic physicians must recognize the challenges faced by poorer patients and advocate for compassionate, equitable care that addresses not just medical needs but also social determinants of health.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Barriers to Cultivating Humanistic Physicians in Clinical Settings’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Teaching method, Medical practice, Medical education, Medical information, Medical knowledge, Healthcare system, Information technology, Technological advancement, Role model, Medical school, Human touch, Humanistic approach, Patient complaints, Peer Support, Patient-centered care, Interpersonal relationship, Humanistic Qualities, Clinical situation, Professional development, Medical student, Qualitative study, Healthcare provider, Patient needs, Clinical setting, Small group discussion, Patient-Centred Care, Clinical phase, Peer-assisted learning, Learning environment, Electronic medical record, Professionalism, Faculty development, Reflective practice, Clinical skill, Unprofessional behaviour, Constructive feedback, Clinical environment, Clinical teachers, Patient centred approach.

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