The Art and Science of Medicine

It has come up as a recurring theme in the clinics we have been attending that medicine has two parts that are equally important. The science is the knowledge and technology behind investigations, diagnoses and treatment. The art is all of the nuances that are involved in the human interactions that accompany clinical encounters.  Without the science, we would simply have social interactions and without the art many health problems would remain a mystery or would not receive adequate treatment. 

   From what I have witnessed the perfect blend of art and science in medicine is often seen in interactions with more senior physicians who have had time to develop these skills in unison.  They enjoy learning about their patients’ families, having a personal connection, reminiscing about past appointments and will be seen smiling and laughing during clinic appointments despite the busy schedule.  You can see in the patient’s that it makes a difference to them that their health care practitioner takes the time to really get to know them.  It also allows you to put people’s illness in the context of their life and not the other way around and I think patients really appreciate that. 

  In my own experiences during medical school, we move from one extreme to the other.  We start with no knowledge and getting the chance to simply talk to patients is a privilege most of us have waited a long time to get.  In clerkship, the focus is on gaining skills and knowledge.  I have found myself dreading that 4am failure to cope consult and thinking, what could this possibly add to my knowledge.  Then being reminded when I step into the room, that there is an elderly lady who fell at home and is scared and confused, that needs my help.  It’s very easy to ignore the art because I think that’s the part of medicine that requires more of a personal investment but I can say the art of medicine had a lot to do with why I chose it for my career.  Internal medicine in particular for me couples the opportunity for that perfect mix of art and science, with the clinical medicine I find fascinating and the opportunity to get to know my patients more fully and have an ongoing relationship with them.  I have been reminded of that in the past few weeks, and although starting as PGY1 in July is a frightening thought, it is also exciting to think I’ll be starting my own journey very soon. 

Ashlay