TEACHING VALUES IN MEDICINE VIA AWARENESS CREATED THROUGH ART

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Art and Medicine
• Physician Professionalism

Background:

• Traditional medical education often focuses on technical skills.
• There is a growing recognition of the importance of non-technical skills and values in physicians.
• The integration of art in learning environments is explored for its potential impact on professional development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how architectural and artistic design can cultivate essential values in medical professionals.
• To highlight the role of art in fostering competency, trust, critical thinking, professionalism, and humanism in medical education.
• To assess the impact of specific art installations and environmental design features on medical trainees.

Main Methods:

• Integration of specific artworks within a new medical education building.
• Strategic placement of art to convey messages related to physician values (e.g., competency, trust, professionalism, humanism).
• Design of spaces, including simulation labs, common areas, and outdoor terraces, incorporating artistic and symbolic elements.

Main Results:

• An antique embroidery emphasizes physician competency and protection against quackery.
• A charcoal drawing promotes trust through vulnerability and optimal mentoring.
• Art Deco-inspired elements and a Chihuly sculpture aim to foster critical thinking, professionalism, and humanism.

Conclusions:

• Artistic and environmental design can serve as a powerful tool in medical education to instill core physician values.
• Thoughtfully curated art and spaces can enhance the development of essential professional attributes beyond technical skills.
• The integration of art supports a holistic approach to medical training, nurturing both scientific rigor and humanistic practice.