Narrative Medicine: A Clinical Tool for the Oncology Advanced Practitioner

Narratives are central to the practice of medicine. However, modern health care faces numerous new demands, including increased patient loads and professional commitments, which interfere with opportunities to listen to and tell stories. These challenges can negatively impact patient care and provider burnout. Narrative medicine has been proposed as an approach to overcome these difficulties. Through implementation of this technique, engaging with illness anecdotes can become a more integral clinical focus. Its main movements are attention, reflection, and affiliation. There are multiple styles proposed for its use, although they all assist in the exploration of meaning within illness narratives. Over the past several decades, a shift toward promoting these tools has led to more research in the field. Multiple studies demonstrate the benefits to patients, providers, and caregivers. Additionally, programs are expanding to further the development of these skills. With guidance and repetition, these abilities can foster better engagement and understanding between all those involved in health care. This article discusses the various principles of narrative medicine and the benefits of its incorporation into health care, specifically in the role of oncology advanced practitioners.