Anthropology in Medical Education: Sustaining Engagement and Impact

Anthropologists have played a significant role in medical education for over a century, teaching, developing curricula, administering, conducting research, and planning. Recent changes in medical education have opened the door for more anthropologists to engage in this field. The book explores various ways in which anthropologists have engaged and are currently involved in training physicians, addresses critical topics such as the history of anthropology in medical education, humanism, ethics, and the culture of medicine, interprofessional and collaborative clinical care, incorporating patient perspectives in practice, addressing social determinants of health, health disparities, and cultural competence, anthropological roles in planning and implementation of medical education programs, effective strategies for teaching medical students, comparative analysis of healthcare systems in different countries, and potential new directions for anthropological engagement with medicine. The volume emphasizes the importance of anthropology in educating physicians to improve patient care and population health.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 385 pages
Publication date: 06 March 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive volume explores the profound and multifaceted relationship between anthropologists and medical education, with the ultimate goal of shaping the future careers of those currently engaged or considering a career in this field. As a vital resource for medical educators, administrators, researchers, and practitioners, as well as those with an interest in the history of medicine, global health, sociology of health and illness, and medical and applied anthropology, this volume offers invaluable insights and perspectives.

For over a century, anthropologists have played a vital role in medical education, contributing in diverse ways such as teaching, curriculum development, administration, research, and planning. The recent shifts in medical education, driven by a focus on diversity, social determinants of health, and more humanistic patient-centered care, have created an opening for anthropologists to further their involvement in medical schools.

The chapter authors in this volume present a rich tapestry of experiences and approaches, showcasing how anthropologists have engaged and are currently involved in training physicians across various countries. They also explore potential new directions in this field, addressing critical topics such as the history of anthropology in medical education, humanism, ethics, and the culture of medicine. Interprofessional and collaborative clinical care, the incorporation of patient perspectives in practice, the exploration of social determinants of health, health disparities, and cultural competence, the roles of anthropologists in planning and implementing medical education programs, effective strategies for teaching medical students, a comparative analysis of healthcare systems in Japan, Uganda, France, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and Canada, and the potential for new directions in anthropological engagement with medicine are all explored in depth.

Throughout the volume, a strong emphasis is placed on the significant role of anthropology in medical education. The authors highlight how anthropological perspectives and methodologies can enhance the training of physicians, promote patient-centered care, and address the complex social and cultural factors that impact health outcomes. By leveraging their unique expertise and interdisciplinary approach, anthropologists can contribute to the improvement of healthcare systems and promote equity and justice in healthcare delivery.

This volume serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in advancing the field of medical education and anthropology. It provides a comprehensive overview of the past, present, and potential future of this partnership, offering valuable insights and perspectives that will be of interest to a wide range of professionals and scholars. As we navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare, it is clear that anthropology will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of medical education and practice.

Weight: 605g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030622794
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021