Authored by Sandra Fineman, MPAS, PA-C, who holds positions as the associate vice president and associate professor at Marshall B. Ketchum University’s Center for Interprofessional Studies.
In recent years, remote and online educational methods have gained popularity. The rapid growth of remote instruction, spurred by the global pandemic, has reshaped the educational landscape. However, it is crucial to recognize that hands-on education remains the cornerstone of a successful healthcare career.
Having worked extensively in healthcare education and practice, I advocate for balancing the art and science of medicine. While the science – the knowledge found in textbooks – is essential, the art of medicine is equally vital. It involves listening to patients, understanding their stories, medical history, and providing compassionate and skilled care.
Hands-on experiences are indispensable for learning the art of medicine. In addition to traditional learning methods like research and online readings, hands-on training plays a pivotal role in understanding various medical careers and the distinctions between healthcare administration and management.
Transitioning from Comfort to Growth
Edgar Dale’s Pyramid of Learning asserts that people remember 10% of what they read, 20% of what they hear, and a striking 90% of what they do. This observation underscores the importance of hands-on training, especially in healthcare where the consequences of errors can be significant.
Students must undergo extensive hands-on training to step out of their comfort zones. While remote learning may seem more comfortable, it is vital to challenge students, pushing them beyond their fears to foster true learning and growth essential for becoming competent healthcare providers.
The Foundations of Hands-On Healthcare Education
Simulated laboratory training and clinical rotations serve as the pillars of hands-on healthcare education, offering students opportunities to transition from comfort to growth zones.
Simulated labs expose students to real-world treatment methods beyond textbooks, allowing them to observe diverse practices, and learn from experienced professionals. Clinical rotations provide students with firsthand experience in treating real patients, under the guidance of knowledgeable preceptors, nurturing their growth as healthcare providers.
One student’s experience exemplifies the transformative power of facing challenges. Starting with a difficult patient population rotation, the student overcame initial fears, realizing significant growth throughout subsequent placements, highlighting the value of hands-on learning in professional development.
The Privilege of Healthcare Provision
Patients present more than just symptoms; they bring their stories and vulnerabilities. As healthcare providers, it is essential to navigate discomfort and fear to facilitate learning and growth, ensuring that patients receive the best care possible.
Embracing challenges and leveraging hands-on training honors the privilege of caring for individuals during their most vulnerable moments, emphasizing the immense value of practical training in healthcare education.
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