Medical Education and The Arts: A Survey of U.S. Medical Schools

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Abstract
Background: Although the literary arts initiated the movement to include the humanities in medical education, little is known about the incorporation of other art forms. Purpose: A study was designed to determine the variety of arts-related activities in U.S. medical schools. Methods: Questionnaires were mailed twice to each of the U.S. medical school deans requesting information about arts-related required and elective courses, extracurricular activities, course and activity titles, and funding sources. Results: Of 100 respondents (78%), 21 offer arts-related required courses, 42 offer electives, and 89 offer extracurricular activities. School-based funds were listed in 67 schools and endowments in 13. Conclusion: Exposure to a variety of the arts is commonplace in U.S. medical schools. Almost half the schools involve the arts in the curriculum and over two thirds support arts-related extracurricular programs. Further investigation is necessary to determine the numbers of students involved, degree of involvement, and the impact on learning and practice.