Person-centered pain management – science and art

Abstract

We are witnessing an unprecedented development of the medical science, which promises to revolutionize health care and improve patients’ health outcomes. However, the core of the medical profession has always been and will be the relationship between the doctor and the patient, and communication is the most widely used clinical skill in medical practice. When we talk about different forms of communication in medicine, we must never forget the importance of communication through art. Although one of the simplest, art is the most effective way to approach the patient and produce the effect that no other means of communication can achieve. Person-centered pain management takes into account psychological, physical, social, and spiritual aspects of health and disease. Art should be used as a therapeutic technique for people who suffer from pain, as well as a means of raising public awareness of this problem. Art can also be one of the best forms of educating medical professionals and others involved in treatment and decision-making on pain.

Communication skills in medicine: where do we come from and where are we going?

“…Although the numerous positive steps undertaken on this subject are already evident with regard to attitudes, knowledge, and skills, this is merely the beginning of a long journey that will require numerous research projects and continued development of educational programs, especially considering the local culture and traditions. It is especially important to mention that, within its educational programs in communication skills, Croatia emphasizes the importance of person-centered medicine and the culture of health ( 22 , 23 ).…”

The founding of Zagreb's Institute for the Culture of Health: an important step toward a new medical paradigm

“…Art is the most effective way to approach people and produce effects that no other means of communication can achieve. Since it is one of the most powerful tools in the education of health care professionals and general public about the culture of health, it is used as a therapeutic technique as well as a means of raising public awareness of culture of health ( 8 ). Art as a universal language is perhaps the most powerful means to connect with and improve people from all over the world.…”

How to express visually the genetic identity of a scientific journal? – an example of the Croatian Medical Journal cover page

“…The analogies of science and arts are frequently evoked ( 1 ). Art can be used as a result of the scientific analysis, or as a tool to achieve research or therapeutic goals ( 2 ). In the CMJ , we strongly believe that the unity of science and arts can offer substantial benefits not only to our journal, but also to science and human culture in general.…”