Rethinking the Physician-Scientist Pathway.

Area of Science:

• Medical Research
• Physician-Scientist Training
• Translational Science

Background:

• Physician-scientists are vital for medical breakthroughs but face challenges in hybrid careers.
• Many trainees abandon research or clinical practice due to training limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To reframe physician-scientist training into two distinct phases: thinking and acting.
• To propose reforms for flexible and supported individualized training pathways.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of early-career physician-scientist experiences.
• Conceptual framework of a two-phase training model.
• Review of current training structures and potential reforms.

Main Results:

• Physician-scientist training can be divided into a 'thinking' phase (clinical training with research exposure) and an 'acting' phase (independent research).
• Flexibility in the initial phase and sustained support in the later phase are critical.
• Numerous reforms are suggested for institutions, funders, and government bodies.

Conclusions:

• Rethinking physician-scientist training is essential for recruitment and retention.
• Individualized, flexible, and well-supported training paths will foster successful physician-scientists.
• Systemic changes are needed to ensure the future of physician-scientists in medical innovation.