Video Art as a Tool for Medical Education and Healthcare Improvement

John Quin, a former NHS physician and writer based in Brighton and Berlin, argues that video art can significantly enhance healthcare and medical education. In an article for ArtReview, he identifies three zones of clinical expertise—communication skills, understanding specific diseases, and reducing stigma—where video artworks offer valuable insights. He cites Anri Sala's 'Intervista (Finding the Words)' (1998) as a tool to teach healthcare workers about denial and the mutability of truth, drawing parallels to clinical history-taking challenges. Christine Borland's 'Endless Walk' (1999) visually demonstrates Gowers's sign in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, aiding trainees in recognizing rare conditions. Jacqueline Donachie's 'Hazel' (2015) explores myotonic dystrophy and identity, praised by geneticists. Erik van Lieshout's portrait of René Daniëls (2021) models empathetic communication with stroke patients. Candice Breitz's 'Love Story' (2016) examines stigma through refugee testimonies and actor reenactments, potentially improving empathy. Quin notes a Canadian study showing video's positive impact on attitudes toward mental illness. At Brighton and Sussex Medical School, a new module will allow undergraduates to study video art via YouTube and museum visits, aiming to inspire further research into art's role in healthcare.