Evolution in Health and Medical Humanities education: a proposal for accreditation

Area of Science:

• Health Humanities
• Medical Humanities
• Transdisciplinary Studies

Background:

• The number of Health and Medical Humanities programs has significantly increased.
• There is a need to define the boundaries and standards of this transdisciplinary field.
• Accreditation models for individual practitioners versus programs require consideration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and evaluate different accreditation models for Health and Medical Humanities programs.
• To identify the most suitable accreditation approach for a young, transdisciplinary field.
• To propose a framework for quality assurance and program development.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of four potential accreditation models: certification for practice, network/umbrella organization, Program of Merit (POM), and consultancy.
• Focus on program-level accreditation rather than individual-level credentialing.
• Evaluation of models based on their suitability for a field without an established canon or direct professional pathway.

Main Results:

• The Program of Merit (POM) model is identified as the most appropriate for Health and Medical Humanities.
• POM credentialing allows for flexibility, creativity, and diversity in program approaches.
• POM enhances program visibility without restricting program titles or curriculum content.

Conclusions:

• A Program of Merit (POM) model best supports the growth and diversity of Health and Medical Humanities programs.
• Establishment of a semi-independent Health and Medical Humanities Program Accreditation Commission (HMHPAC) is proposed.
• The HMHPAC, administered by the Health Humanities Consortium, aims to ensure quality, aid resource acquisition, and attract students.