Mapping the Evidence of Narrative Interventions in Healthcare: A Systematic Scoping Review Protocol

This scoping review aims to explore the role of narrative approaches in healthcare, with a focus on Narrative Medicine—a field that integrates patients' personal illness stories into clinical practice to foster empathy, enhance communication, and improve care outcomes. Initiated by Rita Charon and colleagues, narrative medicine emphasises reflective writing, storytelling, and empathetic engagement. The review also encompasses related interventions, including narrative therapy, digital storytelling, and narrative identity frameworks, which have shown promise in mental health and broader care settings. Objective: Map existing literature on Narrative Medicine applications. Identify key themes and concepts. Explore different methods used in Narrative medicine. Highlight research gaps for future exploration. Methodology: The review follows PRISMA-ScR and JBI guidelines. Data will be sourced from major databases (PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Google Scholar) and grey literature. A comprehensive search strategy using keywords, MeSH terms, Boolean operators, and truncation will be employed. Dual independent screening, quality assessment (JBI tools), and data extraction will be conducted. Data Analysis: Quantitative data will be presented in evidence tables. Qualitative data will undergo Thematic Content Analysis, guided by the Institute of Medicine’s six quality domains (timeliness, effectiveness, safety, patient-centeredness, efficiency, equity). Analysis will include both deductive and inductive elements. Discussion Focus: Interdisciplinary convergence between narrative medicine, digital health, and psychological therapies. Methodological diversity across qualitative and quantitative designs. Identification of challenges including outcome standardization and training needs. Implications for policy, education, and clinical practice.