One-sided focus on scientific research in the program

As a staunch opponent of a mountain of paperwork with a potentially mild form of ADHD, preparing for the next visit just doesn’t make sense celebratory to me. Anyway, it’s all for the greater good and so I solemnly promised myself not to do that. that do not work. It became clear to me again how disproportionately great importance is attached to the conduct of scientific research in the training of medical specialists.

For example, the RGS has prepared a survey of residents (“a survey of residents in preparation for the visit”). The opening questions are not crazy. This relates to the pressure of work, the atmosphere, the advertising of training costs etc. In short: about everyday worries. However, one question stands out (Question 14 for enthusiasts): ‘Is the conduct of scientific research sufficiently motivating and supported? How does that appear?

Why this question? Why not: Will you have the opportunity to obtain a Basic Teaching Qualification (UTQ)? Will you have the opportunity to spend a day in a nursing home? Will you have the opportunity to look at the board of directors or, if you so desire, an MBA? Will you have the opportunity to innovate or create your own company? In short: have you been given enough opportunity to describe yourself and how does that appear?

Our population is aging rapidly and the demand for care is increasing. There is a growing gap between the rich and the poor. There is a lot of social discontent quickly and if we are not careful we will lose our bonds with society from our ivory towers. And then we didn’t even discuss the climate crisis, which is definitely our biggest problem. The solutions lie in collaboration with nursing homes, concern for palliative care, innovation and entrepreneurship, social engagement, and clinicians who can control rather than control them.

So we need doctors who will lead the way in the climate crisis. We need doctors who can talk to patients in the market about vaccines. We need clinicians who understand the importance of nursing homes and palliative care. We need doctors who can drive. We also need doctors who innovate and collaborate with the business community. And yes, we need doctors who conduct scientific research and advance healthcare in this field. But the strength and future of healthcare lies in bringing together this entire palette and not just the field of scientific research.

I find scientific research very interesting and important. In fact, I’m part of Rolf Groenwold’s clinical epidemiology research group at LUMC. I would never have done it if I had not enjoyed it and wholeheartedly upheld the importance of scientific research. However, the importance attached to scientific research in the training of medical professionals is currently disproportionately large. With the current challenges in all areas that lie ahead in healthcare, I find this a troubling note.

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