Why Do So Many Neurologists Have PhD's?

[indya]

I have noticed that many neurologists have PhD's as compared to other specialties. Is there any reason for this? Does it help a lot to have a PhD for top residency programs?

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[PhakeDoc]

Well, I think neurology is perfect for blending basic science / clinical / epidemiological research with the actual practice of a medical specialty. I can't remember the numbers in terms of percent makeup of successful applicants (go to the nrmp site and download the charting outcomes 2008 to look), but there were quite a few I met on the interview trail (though I expected to meet more, actually). I definitely think that as an MD/PhD, given that you are clinically competent or even strong, you will be likely be heavily courted for the top academic (and even clinical ones because they want to be known for having some MD/PhDs trainees as well) programs. I'll readily admit that I was ecstatic with my Match results. And with new imaging, interventional, pharmacological, neurophysiological, etc., therapies being developed, it's the perfect hotbed for combining varying types of analytical talents.

 

[PhakeDoc]

By the way, I should make perfectly clear (in response to your last question) that getting into a top residency alone should NOT be a reason to get a PhD. The only reason someone should get a PhD (in my opinion) is if they actually enjoy investigating phenomena and analyzing associations, etc., and like the tedious, painstaking process that it often is and think they can combine that with clinical practice/knowledge. Otherwise, just stick with the MD.

 

[indya]

By the way, I should make perfectly clear (in response to your last question) that getting into a top residency alone should NOT be a reason to get a PhD. The only reason someone should get a PhD (in my opinion) is if they actually enjoy investigating phenomena and analyzing associations, etc., and like the tedious, painstaking process that it often is and think they can combine that with clinical practice/knowledge. Otherwise, just stick with the MD.

ya, I agree. I was trying to see if, what seems like many, neurologists are the kind of person who would want a PhD. Neurology seems like a field which lends itself well to research (as compared to others.)