Integrating Literature into Programs for Medical Paraprofessionals

Abstract

This essay shares one teachers experience with using literature in courses for students wishing to become medical paraprofessionals. Written in small vignettes, specific medical topics are connected to pieces of literature, including a discussion of how that literature can be used in the education process. Major educational topics include: avoiding bias; the placebo/expectation effect; SOAP notes; HIPAA & Patient Privacy; responsibility of healthcare providers; connecting history to today’s medical practices; interdisciplinary thinking; and having a system-wide perspective.

Keywords: literature, medicine, medical paraprofessionals, philosophy