The role of patient-led education initiatives in medical education

Abstract

There are health care policy, service delivery, and educational drivers for the involvement of patients in medical education. In this article, we explore some of these drivers and the current theoretical paradigms through which patient involvement in medical education is examined. The roles that patients currently play in medical education are considered, along with aims, benefits, and potential drawbacks of involvement for patients, students, and medical educators. A review of current literature and the limitations thereof is included. The gap between policy and practice is considered, and potential reasons for this gap are suggested. Lastly, the impact of patient-led education is considered, and how patient-led education can best be used to transform student learning.