Shakespeare could help doctors empathise with their patients

Studying the works of William Shakespeare could help doctors connect and empathise with their patients, according to experts.

Notes made by Dr. David Jeffery from the Department of Palliative Medicine at the University of Edinburgh show that Shakespeare had an empathetic understanding of people and an ability to see and avoid misunderstandings. These notes could help improve the doctor-patient connection and help the patient open up to their physician.

It has been believed in the past that emotions should not play a part in the relationship between doctor and patient, however this has left room for a lack of empathy, and a cold and impersonal interaction causing a distance between them.

It has now been advised that perhaps medical students should study Shakespeare to help with their socialisation skills and connect with their patients on a deeper level.

Referencing The Tempest, As You Like It, and King Lear, Dr. Jeffrey wrote: “It is remarkable that Shakespeare’s work remains relevant today. It seems that he could anticipate our thoughts, particularly in times of crisis.”

Shakespeare’s plays have an uncanny ability to connect with readers, and reflect our own views and feelings.

The varied perspectives held within Shakespeare’s works, including layers of morality and understanding of humanity are written in a way that allows the readers free interpretation and a development of empathy.

This honing of skills in reflection and understanding is essential for medical students as they need these skills while working with patients and in diagnosis, especially in times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Jeffery said, “A special study module would be one way of introducing Shakespeare studies to the undergraduate curriculum.”

A holistic approach to medical training would offer a close connection between Shakespeare’s expertise in human behaviour and important clinical knowledge the medical students need to learn. Perhaps this will lead to a better relationship between general practitioners and their patients.