Deliberate solitude for clinical reasoning

Abstract

While modern medicine emphasizes teamwork, expert performance in clinical reasoning may require periods of deliberate solitude to refine intuition, enhance diagnostic and/or management accuracy, and mitigate potential cognitive biases. Evidence from cognitive psychology, philosophy, and education suggests that cognitive withdrawal supports deep learning and problem-solving, yet its role in clinical reasoning learning and performance remains underexplored. Medicine often prioritizes speed and real-time collaboration, potentially limiting opportunities for independent time for thought. This article explores whether deliberate solitude could support the development and performance of clinical reasoning. Clinicians might consider engaging in diagnostic rehearsal, independent synthesis, and/or cognitive withdrawal during these solitary moments, but the specific opportunities and benefits remain uncertain. By drawing from research in other disciplines, we consider how solitude might help physicians refine their clinical reasoning, which, in turn, could potentially reduce errors. While no specific course of action can yet be made, this conceptual perspective suggests potential directions for future inquiry.

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