American Pediatric Surgical Association Presidential Address 2021 A Surgeon's Purpose

Area of Science:

• Medical Humanities
• Art History
• Literary Studies

Background:

• Understanding the physician's role in patient care is crucial.
• Historical perspectives can offer insights into empathy and hope in medicine.
• Literature and art provide rich narratives of patient experiences with illness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how examining literature and art history can enhance physician understanding of patient suffering.
• To identify methods for improving physician empathy and the ability to foster hope in patients.
• To leverage historical media for better patient-centered care.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of historical literature and art across several centuries.
• Qualitative analysis of artistic and literary depictions of childhood illness and family experiences.
• Cross-disciplinary examination of themes related to suffering, empathy, and hope.

Main Results:

• Historical art and literature offer detailed accounts of patients and families confronting disease.
• Analysis reveals recurring themes of suffering, resilience, and the need for hope.
• These media provide valuable insights into the emotional and social aspects of illness.

Conclusions:

• Examining literature and art history enhances physicians' ability to recognize suffering.
• This study underscores the importance of empathy in medical practice.
• Integrating insights from humanities can improve patient care by fostering hope.