Alternate Paths to Scientist-Physician

I know I want to be a doctor, and while I like and am considering the idea of also getting a Ph.D. to supplement my knowledge, I'm not thrilled with taking two gap years to buff up my research resume before applying to MSTPs as per the advice I keep hearing. An older doctor got his Ph.D. in the middle of residency, I think. Is that still a viable path someone could take (this happened over 20 years ago)? What alternate routes are there to getting both an MD and a Ph.D.?
Source: Student Doctor Network - Category: Universities & Medical Training Authors: Source Type: forums