During residency training and in practice beyond, all physicians will be required to frequently search out, review and critically appraise a variety of clinical topics in the ever-growing body of medical literature. During the third year, students are required to complete a research or scholarly paper of publishable quality, which may consist of a case report or research project report.
This scholarly activity provides students the opportunity to further develop skills in reviewing evidence-based medicine, critical thinking, and writing skills, all while working under the mentorship of VCOM clinical or biomedical faculty.
Several of the papers submitted by VCOM students in the past have been published in peer-reviewed journals, presented as posters and abstracts at regional, state, and national conferences, and have even won awards and other recognition. Students should recognize that participating in case reports and research are valued by graduate medical education programs and should include these in their CVs and applications.