Basic science research in postgraduate surgical training: difficulties encountered by clinical scientists

• Published in: Journal of cancer education Vol. 12; no. 4; p. 245
• Main Authors: Skenderis, 2nd, B S, Rustum, Y M, Petrelli, N J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 1997
• Subjects: Clinical Competence; Communication; Education, Medical, Graduate; Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; General Surgery - education; Genes, p53 - genetics; Humans; Internship and Residency; Laboratories; Physician-Patient Relations; Research - education; Research Design; Science - education; Students, Medical; Teaching - methods; Tumor Suppressor Protein p53 - genetics
• ISSN: 0885-8195; 1543-0154

Clinical training of physicians and surgeons involves teaching students and residents both the science and the art of medicine. The science of medicine involves clinical skills honed through reading textbooks and journals and experience in diagnosing and treating myriad diseases. The art of medicine involves the important communication skills necessary for a good doctor-patient relationship. A third aspect of training, basic science research, is frequently de-emphasized or omitted entirely. In general, training programs frequently do not allow protected time in a laboratory setting for the resident. The few weeks to months that some programs allow is insufficient to establish a thorough understanding of scientific method. The article describes the introduction of one of the authors from a clinically oriented training background into the laboratory and outlines the pitfalls frequently encountered when a clinician embarks on basic science research training. The necessity for sufficient protected time in the laboratory away from clinical responsibilities is recognized.