Unfinished Business: The Role of Research in Family Medicine

The Article in Brief

Unfinished Business: The Role of Research in Family Medicine

Robin S. Gotler

Background While family medicine research has experienced tremendous growth in the past five decades, research was not a priority when the specialty was established in 1969. This article explores influences on the early relationship between family practice and research.

What This Study Found An examination of archival and secondary sources suggests that the priority placed on research in family medicine's early years was due to internal and external factors, including family physicians' desire to differentiate themselves from the prevailing specialty environment; lack of a clear identity for the new specialty; the non-laboratory nature of family medicine research; reliance on information from other specialties; and a focus on establishing an academic presence. A strong culture of generalist knowledge is crucial in assuring family medicine's future and strengthening its ability to improve the health of individuals, families, and communities, the author suggests.