Breaking Tradition to Bridge Bench and Bedside: Accelerating the MD-PhD-Residency Pathway

Problem Physician–scientists are individuals trained in both clinical practice and scientific research. Often, the goal of physician–scientist training is to address pressing questions in biomedical research. The established pathways to formally train such individuals are mainly MD–PhD programs and physician–scientist track residencies. Although graduates of these pathways are well equipped to be physician–scientists, numerous factors, including funding and length of training, discourage application to such programs and impede success rates. Approach To address some of the pressing challenges in training and retaining burgeoning physician–scientists, New York University Grossman School of Medicine formed the Accelerated MD-PhD-Residency Pathway in 2016. This pathway builds on the previously established accelerated 3-year MD pathway to residency at the same institution. The Accelerated MD-PhD-Residency Pathway conditionally accepts MD–PhD trainees to a residency position at the same institution through the National Resident Matching Program. Outcomes Since its inception, 2 students have joined the Accelerated MD-PhD-Residency Pathway, which provides protected research time in their chosen residency. The pathway reduces the time to earn an MD and PhD by 1 year and reduces the MD training phase to 3 years, reducing the cost and lowering socioeconomic barriers. Remaining at the same institution for residency allows for the growth of strong research...
Source: Academic Medicine - Category: Universities & Medical Training Tags: Innovation Reports Source Type: research