Sustainable Clinical Academic Training Pathways: A framework for implementation in Oman

Abstract

Clinical academics—medical doctors with additional training in basic science or clinical research—play a pivotal role in translating biomedical research into practical bedside applications. However, international studies suggest that the proportion of clinical academics relative to the medical workforce is dwindling worldwide. Although efforts to reverse this trend are ongoing in many countries, there is little perceptible dialogue concerning these issues in Oman. This article explores the current status of clinical academic training pathways worldwide, concluding with a framework for the implementation of a dual-degree medical-research training programme in Oman in order to stimulate and develop a sustainable national clinical academic workforce.

Keywords: Training Programs; Undergraduate Medical Education; Graduate Medical Education; Internship and Residency; Medical Students; Research; Oman.