Transition to Virtual Reflection: Narrative Medicine during COVID-19

Abstract

This article was migrated. The article was marked as recommended. Narrative medicine workshops are typically conducted in person and provide medical professionals and students with reflective spaces. During the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person workshops at one university were cancelled and moved online following social distancing measures. Narrative medicine workshop facilitators were challenged to transfer workshops online, while still encouraging creative reflection as the pandemic impacted participants' professional and personal lives. One workshop for pre-medical students at the university moved online to Zoom, the standard platform for all university courses. The workshop length was shortened and the curriculum re-focused on creative texts and personal wellbeing. Participants responded positively to Zoom workshops although fewer individuals participated overall. Most participants were able to successfully use the platform although there were difficulties regarding WiFi and connection. Despite challenges, these workshops function in virtual spaces and provide an important opportunity for programs to integrate virtual sessions for wellness and reflection during a time of pandemic.