Medicine Meets Science: The Imperative of Scientific Research and Publishing for Physician-Scientists

Indian J Radiol Imaging. 2025 Jan 9;35(Suppl 1):S9-S17. doi: 10.1055/s-0044-1800803. eCollection 2025 Jan.

Abstract

Physician-scientists serve as conduits between clinical practice and scientific research, leveraging their unique expertise to improve patient care and drive medical innovation. This article highlights the indispensable role of research and publishing in promoting evidence-based practices, facilitating professional growth, and shaping public health policy. Drawing on historical and contemporary examples, I examine the challenges faced by physician-scientists, such as ethical dilemmas and declining engagement in research, particularly in resource-constrained settings. I suggest pragmatic strategies to overcome these barriers, emphasizing the need for systemic support, ethical integrity, and the equitable dissemination of advancements. This piece aims to inspire a new generation of physician-scientists to engage deeply with both clinical and research domains, thus advancing global health equity and resilience.

Keywords: equity; ethics; global health; medical research; neurology; physician-scientist; science.

Grants and funding

Funding We acknowledge the financial support received from the Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (KAKENHI; PI: SMMB) by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), Japan (Grant ID: P23712). We also extend our gratitude for the JSPS International Fellowship, supported by MEXT and the Australian Academy of Science, awarded to SMMB for the period 2023–2025.