Integrating Narrative Medicine and Evidence Based Medicine: The Everyday Social Practice of Healing

Evidence-based scientific medicine is increasingly seen as the foundation of effective healthcare, but narrative-based medicine sheds light on the social and interpersonal aspects of doctor-patient interactions, which can also have a major impact on healthcare outcomes. The philosophies underlying these two approaches appear to be at odds with each other, but those who are able to integrate both approaches into their practice are among the most successful physicians. Integrating Narrative Medicine and Evidence-Based Medicine provides answers to the key question of how physicians can best apply both approaches in practice. The book's author envisions a future in which evidence-based practice will be expected of all doctors, but argues that the integration of narrative approaches will also be key, presenting a unique perspective on how to structure the patient-professional encounter for optimal outcomes. It develops a cultural analysis and socio-cultural theory of healing science and describes an effective method by which practitioners can find and use medical research at the point of care using current technology and skills. It responds to the need to translate science - to move research into practice - identified by the National Institutes of Health. This book will be essential reading for teachers, medical students and postgraduate trainees, behavioural scientists, psychologists, social scientists working in medical settings and health managers and administrators.