Clinical Knowledge
Definition
Maintaining general knowledge of the evolving healthcare field
What is it?
Having Clinical Knowledge means staying current on the latest practices in the field, maintaining both the wide body of knowledge as well as the technical skills needed to provide excellent care.
Why is it important?
The beauty of science and research is that we are always learning something new. This means that the medical practices and accepted knowledge from a few years ago may no longer be the best available. Consequently, keeping up with the latest research, practices, and information is critical, especially around a given specialty. Keeping up with the latest healthcare knowledge means you will have the ability to provide patients with the best possible care that you and science can offer. Furthermore, continuing education and remaining engaged is what will keep you on the top of your field.
Suggestions for Improvement
- Capitalize on Resources and Opportunities
First, intentionally continue your education by finding and using the resources provided for you. Because there are always changes in science, technology, and medical practices, healthcare experts continue to establish ways to assist providers in keeping up to date with the new information. Physicians have established journal clubs to review cases and current research with co-workers. In-person and online conferences provide physicians with a space to share, learn, and discuss information. Hospitals and associations provide access to journals, books, and ongoing trainings. - Know Your Learning Style
Second, embrace your learning style to help absorb new information efficiently. For those who practice medicine, time is an important, but often limited, resource. Knowing and capitalizing on your learning style helps you to more effectively use time and take in information. In addition, finding ways to save time is critical in maximizing productivity and maintaining a healthy work/leisure balance. Some individuals are visual learners, while others gather information more easily through verbal instruction or kinesthetic learning (learning by doing). Understand your learning style, and play toward your strengths. - Enjoy Continued Learning
Finally, strive to enjoy the process of continued education. Foster a mindset that enjoys learning and finds learning about new medicine exciting, rather than a chore. This could mean remembering that humans are constantly developing and possess an immense capacity to learn, and consequently embracing your areas of out-dated knowledge as opportunities for growth. Or it could mean shifting your attitude by allowing yourself to also explore more in-depth the areas of medicine that you love. As a manager, you could also foster this attitude in your workplace by introducing updated-knowledge challenges or encouraging employees to share their education efforts with one another.
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