Illustration Clinic

We need initiatives that combine art and medicine to transform patient care and develop standardized frameworks for using visual aids in medical communication. Art serves as a powerful tool for communication, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers. In a healthcare setting, where clear understanding is crucial, visual aids offer a universal language that patients from all walks of life can comprehend.  Especially, for patients who don’t speak English, navigating medical conversations can be particularly daunting. Visual aids provide a tangible means for physicians to convey complex medical concepts without relying solely on verbal explanations. A simple diagram illustrating the workings of the human body or the progression of a disease can make a world of difference in helping patients grasp their diagnoses and treatment plans. 

As part of the HEART Research, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine students collaborated with a Boston University fine arts student to generate a 16-minute instructional video demonstrates the key components for improving physicians’ clinical sketches to help augment patient understanding of complex medical concepts. The video reinforces the application of the developed rubric in real-world clinical circumstances by providing examples from previously evaluated drawings that illustrate appendicitis, cancer staging and endometriosis.

Click here to be directed to the Educational Video

Click Here to view the full-size Summary Sheet with Link for Educational Video

Please reach out to us through the “Contact Us” page in order to receive the rubric that can be used to evaluate clinical sketches.