A Voluntary Medical Humanities Module in a Medical College in Western Nepal: Participant Feedback

Abstract

BACKGROUND: A pioneering, voluntary Medical Humanities (MH) module was conducted at the Manipal College of Medical Sciences, Pokhara, Nepal using small-group interactive sessions, literature and art excerpts, case scenarios, role-plays, and debates. DESCRIPTION: Participant feedback was obtained using focus-group discussions and reflective writing assignments. Medicine and the Arts, Ethics and Medicine, and Social Issues in Medicine were the three main units. Students from the third, fifth, and sixth semester and "interested" faculty members participated. EVALUATION: Learning the humanities had a number of advantages. Role-plays were an enjoyable and effective learning methodology. The module would be of help in individualizing treatment to specific patients. Other topics can be considered. Faculty and students learning together was an enjoyable experience. CONCLUSIONS: The participants enjoyed being a part of the module. More literature and art excerpts from Nepal and South Asia should be used. MH can help to orient practice in a Nepalese/South Asian sociocultural context.