Resident physicians at USA Health have been venturing outdoors to engage in a unique method aimed at improving their communication with patients. In an unconventional pairing of medicine and horsemanship, the academic health system's Department of Internal Medicine has introduced a hands-on workshop to enhance residents' awareness of nonverbal communication according to a news release.

The workshop, titled "Medicine and Horsemanship," pairs resident physicians with horses to help increase their awareness of nonverbal communication and apply those lessons in working with their patients. Dr. Haris Manan, recognizing the significance of this innovative approach, emphasized the parallels between the bond of a rider and horse and the patient-doctor relationship.

"The bond between a rider and a horse underscores the importance of effective communication, trust, and mutual understanding – principles that resonate profoundly in patient-doctor relationships," Manan said in the release. "Just as with horses, patients respond to a calm and confident demeanor."

Similar seminars are gaining popularity across medical schools in response to studies highlighting issues of ineffective communication between doctors and patients. During the workshop, participants like Dr. Leena Patel observed how horses respond to subtle cues, drawing parallels to their interactions with patients.

"As a physician, it reminded me that I am constantly observed as I observe the patient. That even when I am just looking at my watch for whatever Teams notification I got, I can appear as if I'm less interested or not fully invested," Patel said. "It's just a good reminder of how subtle things, such as eye contact, posture, and hand/leg movements can influence someone's perception of you."

Studies, including one published in the journal PLOS ONE, highlight the efficacy of equine-assisted training in honing nonverbal communication skills. Horses, with their extensive range of facial expressions mirroring human emotions, serve as effective teachers in understanding trust and respect in patient interactions.

Residents appreciated the opportunity to step outside their typical environment and valued the chance to refine crucial skills in a novel setting. The equine-assisted workshop not only contributes to residents' overall wellness but also provides a unique platform for refining communication skills essential for effective patient care.

"This activity not only boosted my overall wellness, but also allowed us to refine our nonverbal communication skills and understand nonverbal clues, which can impact our overall interactions with patients," said Anas Khouri, M.D. "These are skills that we need as much as clinical skills to be successful physicians and I am glad that our program recognizes and cultivates these aspects of our development."