‘To Step Outside the Limits of Our Work’: Physician Perspectives on Arts-based Approaches in Continuing Medical Education

Journal of CME (09/26/25) Balhara, Kamna S.; Zink, Korie; Fitzsousa, Elizabeth; et al.

Researchers investigated the role of arts and humanities in continuing medical education (CME), an area where such programming remains limited despite its growing presence in undergraduate and graduate medical training. Through four Zoom-based CME sessions using visual arts pedagogy, researchers assessed physicians' perceptions using surveys and focus groups. Among the 60 participants from North America, Europe, and Asia, all survey respondents supported ongoing integration of arts-based approaches, with over 90% finding them relevant to clinical practice, teaching, and personal well-being. Physicians reported benefits such as enhanced clinical skills and openness to new perspectives, though some viewed the nontraditional aspects of arts-based education as a potential barrier. Overall, the findings suggest that arts-based CME can foster critical thinking, well-being, and a growth mindset among experienced medical educators.

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