This NPR transcript details a workshop using improv theatre techniques to train medical residents.Here’s a breakdown of teh key elements:
Workshop Goal: to help young doctors become more agreeable using humor, curiosity, and empathy in their interactions with patients and colleagues.
Key Techniques Used:
mirroring: Participants mirror each other’s movements,fostering a sense of connection and observation.
“Yes, And” Game: A core improv principle where participants build upon each other’s statements, starting each response with “Yes, and…” This encourages acceptance and collaborative thinking.
Participants’ Initial Reaction: Skepticism.
Participants’ Post-Workshop Feedback:
Dr. Manvir Sandhu (First-year resident):
Learned to think about how to connect with another person and practise empathy.
Realized the importance of paying closer attention to patients’ body language and anticipating their reactions.
Emphasized that these skills cannot be learned from a textbook.
Dr. Tea Pere:
Saw a direct translation of the “yes-and” game to patient interactions, particularly when addressing patient concerns about medications or diagnoses.
Suggested opening conversations with empathy (“Yes, I understand your concerns. Tell me more about them.”) and then building trust and offering medical advice.
Facilitators/Experts:
Danger: Leads the improv exercises and explains the techniques.
* Dr. Chris Boswell: Oversees the residents participating in the training and highlights the benefit of adapting to evolving situations,like not knowing what a colleague will say next.
Overall Message: Improv theater techniques provide valuable, practical skills for medical professionals that go beyond customary textbook learning, enhancing their ability to connect with and care for patients.
