Combining vocational and research training.
BACKGROUND
The gap between research and clinical practice can be bridged by strengthening the position of the clinician-researcher with appropriate research training and protected time for research.


METHODS
A Dutch program combines vocational training in family medicine with research training. This article describes the scientific output of registrars following this combined program.


RESULTS
Forty family physician registrars who undertook the combined program from 2000-2006 produced 138 publications in both international and national journals. Most of these registrars participated in scientific committees and expert groups in the field of family medicine.


CONCLUSIONS
Combining vocational training with research training in general practice has proven to be feasible and has resulted in considerable scientific output and professional participation.
Olde Hartman
Tim C
TC
Department of General Practice, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, The Netherlands. t.oldehartman@hag.umcn.nl
Poels
Patrick J P
PJ
Licht-Strunk
Els
E
van Weel
Chris
C
D035843:Biomedical Research / Q000193:education* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D002568:Certification / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate / Q000379:methods* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005194:Family Practice / Q000193:education* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D008511:Medicine / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D009426:Netherlands; D011787:Quality of Health Care; D013038:Specialization