COVID-19: Unveiling the Role of Uncertainty in Medical Education

Abstract

Since the start of COVID-19, we have all heard the phrase "facing unprecedented uncertainty," and it is this uncertainty that health care professionals are navigating on a daily basis. In this personal view article, I highlight the impact of uncertainty on everyday clinical practice, and the amplification of this during the current pandemic. In light of this, I argue for the value of teaching for uncertainty in medical education in a way that is transparent and intentional. Ultimately, I query whether such a curricular change might allow trainees, health care professionals and the public to feel more prepared when facing these uncertain times.

Keywords

• Medical education
• COVID-19
• uncertainty
• clinical reasoning