The art of medicine through the humanities: an overview of a one-month humanities elective for fourth year students

Background The purpose of incorporating humanities teaching into medical education is to encourage students to develop into more sensitive and caring doctors who communicate well with their patients and colleagues. Content A unique 4th year student elective at the Medical College of Wisconsin incorporates reflective and writing activities. Small group sessions are facilitated by faculty with specific interest and expertise in the humanities. Evaluation Students keep a journal in which they record their reflections on personal issues, career planning and reactions to classroom discussions. Each student writes a poem and an essay or short story. The course is well received and oversubscribed. Conclusions Students increase their understanding of the humanities through readings, small group discussions, journal keeping and formal writing. By incorporating humanism into their professional lives, medical students can learn to care for their patients in a more humane and thoughtful manner.