Training the Physician-Scientist in Internal Medicine
The need for the physician scientist to develop broad skillsets to successfully transition into an independent academic faculty position has led to a diverse array of postgraduate training programs in the Internal Medicine field. While many trainees acquire scientific skills during graduate medical education (MSTP, MD, PhD degree) most require additional, postgraduate training to successfully integrate clinical and scientific expertise allowing for the development of an academic program to maximally impact patient care. The need for this complex level of training has led to development models that can be generally categorized as physician-scientist training programs (PSTP), research in residency (RiR) programs, or Umbrella PSTPs.
The PSTP model most commonly integrates clinical training in internal medicine and a subspecialty with research activities over a six- to seven-year period of training time.
The RiR model allows categorical residents in traditional three-year training programs to simultaneously engage in activities from a coexisting PSTP or a unique research curriculum dedicated to residents training in internal medicine.
Umbrella PSTPs are broad programs seeking to develop an institutional culture that promotes the growth and diversity of the physician scientist workforce at all levels of education and training ranging from undergraduate and medical school to trainees transitioning into faculty positions.
