Embedding narrative medicine in primary healthcare: Exploration and practice from a medical humanities perspective

Abstract

This study examines the integration of narrative medicine (NM) into primary healthcare (PHC) settings, evaluating its role in enhancing medical humanities education within grassroots healthcare institutions. Through a comprehensive literature review and case analysis, the research investigates the current state, challenges, and practical barriers to embedding NM into PHC systems, while proposing targeted strategies for improvement. The findings suggest that NM fosters stronger doctor-patient trust, enhances healthcare quality, and promotes humanistic care. However, primary hospitals face numerous challenges in advancing medical humanities, including a lack of trust between doctors and patients, tensions arising from the commercialization of healthcare, institutional limitations, unequal distribution of resources, and issues related to physicians' professional competencies and stress management. These interrelated obstacles detract from the quality of PHC services and the overall patient experience. Drawing on successful case studies from primary hospitals, the paper outlines effective strategies for overcoming these challenges. The study provides both theoretical and practical insights for advancing medical humanities in PHC, contributing to improvements in healthcare service quality and supporting the development of high standards in the healthcare sector. Ultimately, the findings aim to promote the broader adoption and ongoing refinement of NM within PHC institutions.

Keywords: Narrative medicine; Primary healthcare; Medical humanities; Doctor-patient relationship; Healthcare quality

Core Tip: This study explores the integration of narrative medicine (NM) in primary healthcare (PHC) to enhance doctor-patient relationships, medical education, and healthcare quality. By identifying institutional barriers such as resource disparities, commercialization, and limited humanities training, the research proposes practical strategies to embed NM into PHC settings. Through case studies and policy analysis, the findings highlight how NM fosters patient-centered care, trust, and communication, ultimately improving healthcare service delivery. This study contributes to advancing medical humanities and shaping a more empathetic and effective healthcare system.