What Is Academic Medicine?

Academic medicine is the study of medical topics doctors and other health-care professionals for academic purposes. They conduct research to improve disease treatment and control, as well as train the next generation of healthcare providers at facilities such as teaching hospitals. Medical professionals working in this field may provide direct patient care in clinical settings, as well as participate in research trials and administrative tasks such as supervising medical students. Depending on the medical specialty and the economic climate, this field can be extremely competitive, and the pay is often lower than those entering private practice.

Medical education is one aspect of academic medicine. People studying to be doctors, nurses, and other health-care providers require classroom and clinical instruction from experienced professionals. To provide the best education to their students, instructors must keep up with the latest developments in the field. Many work in cutting-edge facilities that provide excellent patient care as well as numerous learning opportunities.

In addition to teaching students, medical educators may participate in clinical practice and research. Some programs encourage students to participate in research and may make spots available on teams that oversee clinical trials for promising students. To advance in the ranks and receive tenure at a reputable training institution, there may be an expectation to participate in continuing education, research, and professional networking. To attract patients and students, these facilities seek faculty with a strong reputation.

Research and development are also included in this category. Academic medicine employees may experiment with new medications, medical imaging technologies, and treatment protocols. They can work on more effective ways to prevent disease, treat medical conditions quickly, and manage chronic illnesses. Academic medicine researchers can work on topics such as developing new medical devices, altering surgical protocols to protect patients, and searching for new cures and treatments.

Much of the work done in the field of research is funded grants. Academic medicine requires care providers to be able to manage administrative tasks such as applying for grants, meeting with review boards to discuss studies, and obtaining regulatory approval for clinical trials. Grant funds are frequently limited, resulting in fierce competition. To impress grant committees with their credentials and experience, applicants should publish on a regular basis, attend conferences, and participate in other professional development activities.