What can students learn from studying medicine in literature?

Objective To identify what students can learn from studying medicine and li terature as part of a final-year special study module in general practice. Method The project reports and evaluation forms completed by all eight stud ents who had chosen to study medicine and literature as part of their speci al study module in general practice at Nottingham University Medical School were analysed qualitatively. Results Students said that they gained a greater understanding of the patie nt's experience of illness, as a result of the texts they had read. They le arned how illness can affect family or friends of the patient and about the psychological impact of physical illness. Most students thought their futu re care of patients would be influenced by what they had learned. Studying medicine in literature during a clinical attachment allowed students to dra w comparisons between literature and their clinical experience. Discussion This study is based on a small number of students who chose to s tudy medicine in literature. The results may not be generalizable to all me dical students and not all students may be receptive to this method of lear ning. However, we recommend that students who are interested should be give n the opportunity to study medicine in literature during their clinical yea rs. This can enable them to reflect on their clinical experience and can pr ovide a more profound understanding of the consequences of illness for the patient and their family.