Trends in Specialty Training and NIH Funding Among Surgeon-Scientists
Author Information
Author(s): Velez Gabriel MD, PhD, Mahajan Vinit B. MD, PhD, Weigel Ronald J. MD, PhD, MBA, Lentz Steven R. MD, PhD
Primary Institution: University of Iowa
Hypothesis
Does dual-degree training predict academic productivity among early-career surgeon-scientists?
Conclusion
The study highlights the need for better career development resources for early-career surgeon-scientists.
Supporting Evidence
- NIH funding to surgical departments declined by 27% between 2007 and 2014.
- MD/PhD graduates represented only 2.3% of active surgical residents from 2011 to 2020.
- 35% of surgeon-scientists who completed K-awards successfully obtained an R01-equivalent award.
Takeaway
This study looks at how many doctors with both MD and PhD degrees are becoming surgeons and how well they are doing in their careers.
Methodology
Analyzed data from the National MD/PhD Program Outcomes Study and NIH K-award recipients from 2011 to 2021.
Potential Biases
Response bias may affect the data due to incomplete survey response rates.
Limitations
The study is retrospective and relies on multiple datasets with potential response bias.
Participant Demographics
37% female among the 476 early-career surgeon-scientists.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.05
Statistical Significance
p=0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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