Enhancing Dermatology Practice through Art: Impact on Clinical Proficiency and Physician Well-Being

Summary: Objective: This study focuses on integrating art into dermatology education to enhance perceptual and diagnostic skills, empathy, tolerance of ambiguity, cultural competency, and burnout prevention. Methods: Study participants included dermatology professionals and trainees attending the 2023 SEC Dermatology conference and a dermatology resident art museum excursion. Participants completed surveys before and after observing and discussing various paintings. The surveys assessed changes in their views on how art influences several clinical competencies. Additionally, qualitative data from interviews with dermatology attendings and residents at UAB explored their perceptions regarding art’s impact on dermatology. Results: The response rate for the quantitative survey was 42.1% (24/57), while the response rate for the qualitative interviews was 57.1% (4/7). The surveys revealed a positive shift in perceptions of art's value in enhancing diagnostic accuracy, particularly in discerning subtle skin color and texture variations. Qualitative analysis revealed that art facilitates flexibility and creativity which enhances the diagnostic process, aids in embracing uncertainty in complex cases, and contributes to stress relief through balance and focused engagement. Conclusion: Incorporating art into dermatology education offers significant benefits, including improved diagnostic skills, empathy, and tolerance of ambiguity, supporting a holistic approach to enhance clinical proficiency and emotional well-being.