Narrative Medicine: Harnessing the Power of Storytelling through Essays

About the Book

Discover the powerful impact of storytelling and narrative in the medical field with, “Narrative Medicine: Harnessing the Power of Storytelling Through Essays,” by Arthur Lazarus, MD, MBA. The book is divided into three sections: Section 1: Medicine Section 2; Storytelling Section 3: Writing Fifty-one essays offer insights and reflections that delve into the heart and soul of healthcare practice, storytelling, and narrative writing. As the pages unfold, you will journey through the compelling world of narrative medicine, showcasing the profound effect of stories in healing and understanding, and underlining their significance in shaping patient experiences, guiding treatment approaches, and fostering a deeper connection between healthcare practitioners and those they serve. This book is an invitation to explore the intricate tapestry of medical narratives and to acknowledge them as an integral part of the therapeutic process.

About the Author

Arthur L. Lazarus, MD, MBA, is a healthcare consultant, certified physician executive, and nationally recognized author, speaker, and champion of physician leadership and wellness. He has broad experience in clinical practice and the health insurance industry, having led programs at Cigna and Humana. At Humana, Lazarus was vice president and corporate medical director of behavioral health operations in Louisville, Kentucky, and subsequently a population health medical director for the state of Florida. Lazarus has also held leadership positions in several pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer and AstraZeneca, conducting clinical trials, and reviewing promotional material for medical accuracy and FDA compliance. He has published more than 250 articles in scientific and professional journals and has written seven books, including Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome and Related Conditions; Controversies in Managed Mental Health Care; Career Pathways in Psychiatry; MD/MBA: Physicians on the New Frontier of Medical Management; Every Story Counts: Exploring Contemporary Practice Through Narrative Medicine; Medicine on Fire: A Narrative Travelogue; and Narrative Medicine: The Fifth Vital Sign. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Lazarus attended Boston University, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology with Distinction. He received his medical degree with Honors from Temple University School of Medicine, followed by a psychiatric residency at Temple University Hospital, where he was chief resident. After residency, Lazarus joined the faculty of Temple University School of Medicine, where he currently serves as Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry. He also holds non-faculty appointments as Executive-in-Residence at Temple University Fox School of Business and Management, where he received his MBA degree, and Senior Fellow, Jefferson College of Population Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Well known for his leadership and medical management skills, Lazarus is a sought-after presenter, mentor, teacher, and writer. He has shared his expertise and perspective at numerous local, national, and international meetings and seminars. Lazarus is a past president of the American Association for Psychiatric Administration and Leadership, a former member of the board of directors of the American Association for Physician Leadership (AAPL), and a current member of the AAPL editorial review board. In 2010, the American Psychiatric Association honored Lazarus with the Administrative Psychiatry Award for his effectiveness as an administrator of major mental health programs and expanding the body of knowledge of management science in mental health services delivery systems. Lazarus is among a select group of physicians in the United States who have been inducted into both the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society and the Beta Gamma Sigma honor society of collegiate schools of business. Lazarus lives with his wife near Charlotte, North Carolina. They have four adult children. He enjoys walking, biking, playing piano, and listening to music.