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Humanities in Medicine: A Qualitative Study of Graduate and Student Experiences of Completing a Student Selected Component

Background: As a relatively recent addition to medical education, evidence for the medical humanities is still being gathered. This study aims to explore qualitatively medical students and graduates’ perceptions of completing humanities Student Selected Component (SSC) and the potential longitudinal impact of such a module. Methods: A qualitative approach was adopted; one focus group took place with current 3rd year medical students (n = 6) and two with medical school graduates (n = 11). Thematic analysis was completed on the three focus group sessions. Results: Three main themes were highlighted including 1) evolution, 2) rewards, and 3) difficulties of the humanities project. A number of sub-themes were also reported. Findings highlight the importance of completing the humanities project in regards to promoting self-reflection, development of new skills and impact on clinical practice. Perceived lack of artistic skills, time-management and perfectionism were highlighted as challenging areas. Conclusion: The importance of medical student and graduates’ experiences of completing a humanities SSC should be recognised and valued, particularly amongst curriculum developers in medical schools.