University course bridges gap between cancer patients and doctors
Researchers found that mixing cancer survivors, their families, and healthcare workers in a single classroom—where each group learns to see medicine through the others' eyes—reduced conflict and improved collaboration. The model offers a scalable approach for health systems struggling with miscommunication and patient dissatisfaction.
Originaltitel: A perspective-taking university course for cancer survivors, loved ones and healthcare professionals
<p>This study reports the results of a university course aimed at exploring and improving cooperation in healthcare with both cancer survivors, loved ones and healthcare professionals as students.</p><p>Central to the course was the understanding of and moving between each other's perspectives. Operating within a framework inspired by problem-based learning (PBL), small groups consisting of at least one cancer survivor, one loved one and one healthcare professional, collaboratively created scenarios based on their personal experiences. The students developed, elaborated, and identified problems and potential solutions. The pedagogical framing illustrated an empowering process of defining and elaborating a problem of their combined concerns, using their different knowledge. Although cooperation presented challenges, most students were able to explore and appreciate each other's perspectives when provided with a safe environment. Our experiences highlight the importance of both contextual safety and personal development as key factors in addressing power imbalances in healthcare.</p>