"Lifelong Learning"

 Asalamu alaikum wa rahmatu lahi wa barakatuh.

In this article, we will briefly explore the concept of lifelong learning and consider what it means to us as Muslims. 

Any student in healthcare will have heard the phrase “lifelong learning” before. You may have even referenced it in a personal statement or interview, but have you ever truly reflected on its implications? In healthcare, lifelong learning is treated as a given, largely due to there still being so much to discover about the human body, and the likelihood that many questions will remain unanswered within our lifetimes.

But what exactly is lifelong learning? The General Medical Council (GMC) describes it as continuous professional development (CPD). CPD can be defined as the ongoing process of striving to improve one’s skills, keeping up-to-date with relevant literature and discoveries, and ensuring competence in clinical practice.

A concept that highlights the necessity of lifelong learning in medicine is the term ‘idiopathic’, which refers to conditions that have a sudden onset and an unidentifiable cause. For both patients and clinicians, this oftentimes can feel overwhelming. When the underlying cause cannot be treated, care is instead focused on alleviating symptoms, which may not always align with patients’ expectations. It is precisely when dealing with the unknown that the pursuit of knowledge is essential. Through continuous learning, the foundation for future research and development is established. 

In Islam, it is sunnah to seek knowledge. The first word revealed from the Quran was:

‘Read’ (96:1 (Surah Al-’Alaq)).

In this context, ‘Read(ing)’ does not just mean the physical act; it encompasses contemplation, reflection, and continuous learning. This is in parallel to the ethos of lifelong learning in healthcare. 

Furthermore, working in healthcare places individuals in a privileged position, carrying the responsibility of safeguarding human life. As stated in the Quran,

“...and whoever saves a life, it will be as if they saved all of humanity.” (5:32 (Surah Al-Ma'idah)

This reinforces the moral duty on us to ensure that we strive to deliver the highest standard of care. 

To fulfil this responsibility, clinicians must remain aware of any changes in clinical guidance and emerging research, with the intention of this knowledge being used for the betterment of patients' quality of life. The job of someone in healthcare is to improve the lives of others, and thus it is a duty to ensure the job is done to the best possible standard. It has been narrated that the Prophet (pbuh) said:

“Verily, Allah loves that when anyone of you does a job, he should perfect it”

Finally, an essential aspect of lifelong learning is recognising one’s limits and seeking help when needed. Medicine is a collaborative career (think MDTs), and acknowledging uncertainty is far more of a strength than a weakness. For every challenge one may encounter, there will always be a path forward. 

‘Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear’ (2:286(Surah Al-Baqarah))

May the fruits of your labour be plentiful in this life and the next, and may your pursuit of knowledge always be for the best of intentions. Inshallah.

- Minnah Issa