May Nguyen MD, Samantha Nadella MD

Background: Empathy is an important skill among physicians and improves patient outcomes. Prior research suggests empathy declines among trainees as they advance through medical school and residency. However, empathy can be taught through many ways including self-reflection and didactic humanities.

Methods: We developed a quarterly departmental book club exploring immigrant experiences, structural racism, reproductive justice, and LGBTQ+ issues. Participants completed an evaluative survey using a Likert scale and multiple-choice questions.

Results: Of the 22 participants, 13 (60%) reported participating in at least one book club session from 2020 to 2022. Of those who participated in the book club, 100% agreed the book club contributed to the development of empathy and 95% felt the book club facilitated understanding of diverse experiences and perspectives. Participants cited time constraints for reading pleasure as the greatest barrier to participating, but interest among participants was strong, with 86% stating they were very likely or likely to participate in a future department book club.

Conclusion/Discussion: A virtual book club is a feasible and novel intervention to mitigate burnout, teach empathy, and foster community between residents and faculty. Furthermore, book clubs can be spaces to address systemic racism and healthcare disparities through rigorous self-reflection and discussion of diverse lived experiences.