Narrative Gaps in Data-Driven Medicine: A Space for Translational Health Humanities Intervention

This talk will discuss the emergence of a set of practices known as “data-driven medicine,” and their intersection with both individual and societal narratives about health and illness. Through a discussion of technologies including telehealth, digital biomarkers, and mobile health apps, Dr. Ostherr will explain how data aggregation inside and outside of clinical settings is presenting faulty narratives that fail to account for fundamental aspects of human experience, including concepts of trust, privacy, and emotional affect. Although “data-driven medicine” is presented as a means to improve and personalize healthcare, these gaps are more likely to increase health disparities and harm the most vulnerable communities. Finally, the presentation will consider alternative methods, based in translational health humanities.

For further information please contact Louise Creechan or Angela Woods.