Presentation 1: Long Roads to Diagnosis: humility and transparency in distinguishing rare diseases from medically unexplained symptoms

Abstract: Many people have symptom sets that are never resolved into a coherent diagnosis. In this talk, I draw on interviews with patients and clinicians negotiating symptom complexes that may or may not be a rare disease. Being in a state of "suspended diagnosis" is concerning for patients and clinicians, with each using different strategies to resolve the situation. We propose that humility towards received diagnoses, and a commitment to transparent review can be helpful for both patients and clinicians.

Speaker Bio: Christine is Professor of Social Foundations of Medicine at the School of Medicine and Psychology and Associate Dean of Health Social Science. Trained in anthropology, medicine and public health, her transdisciplinary research focuses on primary care systems and the voices of consumers and community. She is a practising general practitioner who has been the medical director of the ACT's refugee health service for over a decade.

Presentation 2: Provider Humility and Patient Health

Abstract: Humility is commonly equated with incompetence and low self-regard. However, recent research has demonstrated its ability to improve psychological health and interpersonal relationships. In this talk, I will present evidence from three studies to show how provider humility may influence patient health outcomes. I will also discuss the future of research on humility and health, including the potential impact of patient humility.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Ho Phi Huynh is a lecturer in the School of Medicine and Psychology. Ho received his Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Arizona and his Ph.D. in at the University of California, Riverside. He is a social-health psychologist whose primary interest is humility. For example, he examines patient health outcomes related to having a humble clinician. Ho is also interested in humility development; for example, what psychological factors underpin humility and how can they be leveraged to cultivate humility? Additionally, he is interested in studying and fostering university student success, particularly for minority students. He and his partner, Amanda, have two kids (5&3). He enjoys playing/coaching volleyball in his down time.