About DimensionsView Video
The Center for the Science and Culture of Healthcare
This initiative was conceived by Dr. Lawrence Dorr, a world leader in hip and joint replacement surgery and research. A Cornell alum and trustee, Dorr has observed a growing trend of medical practitioners whose approach to health care is often limited to their scientific training. Experience has taught him that there are many dimensions to effective health care—humanistic and policy-related as well as scientific.
This program is believed to be a first-of-its-kind approach to education and training which places as much emphasis on preparing to heal the patient as treating the affliction. It begins with a strong foundation in natural science courses and labs and matches that with a visionary curriculum of humanities- and social sciences-based courses and activities.
Students explore issues such as empathy, communication, creativity, ethics, and the history and economics of medicine so that they ultimately gain a compassionate and well-rounded perspective of the life circumstances of the patient. Students collaborate closely with faculty mentors, travel and conduct fieldwork and research, participate in internships, and meet and learn from renowned professionals. They also benefit from individualized guidance through an expertly staffed health careers advising program.
In the words of Trustee Dr. Lawrence Dorr:
“The care of the patient is 50 percent art and 50 percent science. You have to be able to handle the patient’s psychological needs as well as scientifically treat the disease. If you are not capable of demonstrating concern, giving the patient confidence in your treatment, and communicating what you are trying to do to give them a positive attitude, your effectiveness as a health care professional ultimately will be limited. I am concerned that there is not a focus on the educational aspects of the art of medicine at any level before or during medical school.”
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