Using art to improve visual diagnosis: a review

Elective visual arts-based courses for trainees in the health professions may, amongst other things, help improve visual diagnostic skills. An emphasis on the careful observation of visual art and medical images and the co-teaching of such courses by both medical faculty members and local art educators seem to be particularly important elements for the successful implementation of such courses.

At least 12 studies to date suggest that guided observation of visual art (e.g. paintings and photography) can enhance the quality and/or quantity of visual observations. More research is needed regarding optimal course structure and assessment, but existing evidence supports the development of visual arts-based coursework for health care trainees using strategies such as 'visual thinking skills' and engagement and processing in groups.

The arts or 'medical humanities' are increasingly used in the education of health professionals, and growing evidence exists that visual arts-based coursework, in particular, can enhance the observation skills of participants. Notably, the expertise and experience of trainees in specific disciplines are likely to influence specific learning goals and course structure in each context; however, unique arts-based teaching strategies (e.g. 'visual thinking skills') can be used across all settings. There is no more difficult art to acquire than the art of observation … William Osler, 1903¹.