Training Future Physician-Scientists in Social Sciences and Humanities.

Abstract

MD/PhD programs have traditionally prioritized the biomedical sciences, training physician-scientists skilled at advancing medical knowledge. Yet, with health disparities increasingly traced to social determinants of health (SDOH), a broader approach-one that integrates "non-traditional" fields such as the social sciences and humanities (SSH)-is essential. Significant challenges persist at three levels: (1) at the structural and systemic levels, where funding mechanisms like the NIH's Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) prioritize biomedical fields, limiting support for SSH fields; (2) at the institutional level, where curricula and resources remain narrowly aligned with biomedical timelines, leaving SSH trainees without adequate support; and (3) at the individual level, where the demands of SSH research often clash with the broader structure of MD/PhD programs, creating unique hurdles. Addressing these barriers requires coordinated reforms, including expanding MSTP programs' eligibility to include SSH fields and partnering with funding agencies and foundations to establish dedicated SSH funding. Medical schools could further support these students by developing cross-departmental SSH-integrated tracks with dedicated mentorship from SSH departments. Additionally, SSH-specific mentorship and community-building initiatives could reduce isolation and nurture a shared identity among SSH trainees. Bridging these gaps is paramount to making MD/PhD training for SSH students more inclusive and effective.