How can we improve clinical research in clinical practice with better research outcome?

Abstract

This paper explains some of the difficulties doctors face when taking up a career in research. It describes the efforts by the government and the Ministry of Health (MOH) to nurture the Clinician Scientist Programme. The nature of research and the mindset of clinicians who are passionate about research are explored and the reasons which drive some of them to pursue a research career. It discusses the need to have structured training for research and how continuing research education is necessary for the researcher. The paper discusses the goals for research and how we can achieve better research outcomes and the importance of good mentorship. It suggests ways to engage more doctors in research in the restructured hospitals by overcoming some of the problems they encounter. Finally, it relates the Biomedical Science initiative of the government through the National Research Foundation and the various programmes in Translational Clinical Research available for clinicians who are keen on a research career.