Office of Innovation and Scholarship in Medical Education
Alan Klass Program in Health Humanities
Close Reading: Building Narrative Competence to Improve Patient Care
Have you ever left an encounter feeling disconnected from a patient, like something was missed by not quite being on the same page? Busy clinical care can make us lose sight that patients
have complex stories not solely defined by their health or illness. How can we better understand one another, while providing the best care, and feeling fulfilled by our work?
Close reading, a core practice of Narrative Medicine, is one powerful approach. Close reading brings intentional attention to the way stories are told, sharpening observation, broadening perspectives, and bridging layers of meaning.
In this interactive workshop we will collaboratively close read short texts, exploring how narrative elements such as metaphor, voice, tense, and perspective shape meaning. We will also reflect on how our own experiences influence our interpretation of the
stories of others. Slowing down to examine how meaning is co-constructed can provide practical strategies to enhance listening skills, foster more thoughtful communication, and improve patient care.
No prior experience in narrative medicine is required – all are welcome!
Monday, April 13, 2026 | 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM |
Zoom
Registration encouraged, but not required.
Click here to register or join by clicking the Zoom link below.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84784196383?pwd=WfiHRPdyfUNxs3UGDX5LmeQ3wq26wh.1
Meeting ID: 847 8419 6383
Passcode: 389289
Facilitator: Kyle Mendonça, Assistant
Professor, Pediatrics, University of Manitoba
UGME Pre-Clerkship Coordinator, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba
Ashley LaRosa
Faculty Development Coordinator
Office of Innovation and Scholarship in Medical Education
S204, Medical Services Building, Bannatyne Campus
Max Rady College of Medicine
204-272-3102 phone
204-272-3169 fax