The relevance of medical history to current practice

Abstract

Current medical practice includes a combination of what history tells us is appropriate and scientific explanation can confirm. Everyday practice requires both sources of guidance. Medical history remains relevant by informing us of what might or might not work amidst complexity, as well as explaining social history, promoting understanding of disease processes and improving explanations to patients. This might be important for professional identity formation and the provision of more holistic care, particularly when evidence-based guidance is absent. Curriculum time is hotly contested, and medical history is often squeezed out, but there is a case for maintaining some core curriculum exposure to raise awareness of key contributions. Medical history also makes a great hobby, particularly for those who like to travel.12,32