RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 How Looking at Art Teaches Self-Discovery and Patient Care to Medical Students
JF The Annals of Family Medicine
JO Ann Fam Med
FD American Academy of Family Physicians
SP 269
OP 270
DO 10.1370/afm.240318
VO 23
IS 3
A1 Gelo, Florence
YR 2025
UL http://www.annfammed.org/content/23/3/269.abstract
AB As a former hospital chaplain and current museum docent, I have learned that looking at art can be a valuable tool for self-discovery and for enhancing medical education. This understanding led to creating a course to teach medical students to observe both art and patients deeply. In museums, the students practiced looking at paintings and describing what they saw and felt. By looking at artwork, they practiced observational skills, critical thinking, self-awareness, respect for difference, and communication. Facilitated museum visits like this can prompt the integration of heart and mind to enhance medical care.