Human touch – good, bad, and ambiguous: a teacher’s perspective on medical students’ and patients’ encounters with doctors globally, with a focus on Pakistan

Human touch holds an important role in field of medicine promoting empathy, trust and connection between doctors, patients and students. This teaching exchange digs into the complex dynamics of 'Human Touch' in medical education and clinical practice exploring its positive, negative and ambiguous aspects. A comforting touch can convey compassion, enhance patient care, alleviate pain and can build trust. However, an uninvited or misinterpreted touch can breach personal boundaries, evoke discomfort or can even be perceived as harassment. The cultural context particularly in Pakistan, adds layers of meaning and sensitivity to such interactions, as societal norms and recent changes influence perceptions of physical contact. Ambiguity in human touch often stems from environmental shifts, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, evolving cultural norms and individual past experiences. With the growing hypersensitivity, driven by movements like #MeToo and increasing societal awareness, the need for clear guidelines on consent and appropriate touch in healthcare settings has become more critical. This Teaching Exchange emphasises the necessity for healthcare educators to cultivate a respectful, empathetic and professional environment. By addressing power imbalances, improving awareness and employing innovative teaching methods, medical institutions can ensure human touch remains a tool for compassion and learning, not contention.