Internal Medicine Day, celebrated on October 28th, shines a well-deserved light on the indispensable contributions of internal medicine physicians or internists (as they’re also known) and subspecialists worldwide. These experts in complexity are the cornerstone of comprehensive healthcare, serving as the connective tissue between clinical practice and clinical research. In this article, we take a unique perspective by exploring internal medicine through the lens of clinical research, drawing parallels between these two vital domains. Our insight comes from Sara Doan, BSc, DC; Executive Director of Program Strategy & Delivery for Internal Medicine at TFS HealthScience, a full-service Internal Medicine CRO, who brings over 26 years of global clinical research experience to the discussion.

Internists specialize in adult medicine, managing severe illnesses, solving diagnostic problems, and caring for patients with multiple chronic conditions. However, internal medicine is not confined to patient care; it extends into the world of clinical development, connecting clinical expertise with scientific inquiry – an intersection where remarkable progress is made. As such, internists have a fundamentally profound influence on clinical research and play an indispensable role in shaping the future of medicine – two facts that often go unnoticed.

As in healthcare, the pursuit of optimal health outcomes is paramount in clinical research. Internists contribute to internal medicine clinical trials by leveraging their longitudinal patient care experience, bringing unique perspectives to a drug’s entire clinical development process. They understand the intricacies of patient journeys, the challenges faced in managing chronic conditions, and the importance of tailoring treatments to individual needs. Combining their invaluable insights with our clinical research know-how as a top global mid-sized CRO, we can design clinical development programs that are not only scientifically rigorous but also patient-centric.

One of the most significant synergies between internal medicine and clinical research is the collaboration between physicians and researchers. Sara, with her substantial experience in both domains, emphasizes the importance of this partnership.

“Physicians and clinical research professionals are two sides of the same coin,” she explains. “While physicians bring clinical expertise and an understanding of patient needs, we bring the scientific rigor and methodology required to conduct robust trials. Together, they form a powerful alliance that drives medical progress.”

-Sara Doan, BSc, DC
Executive Director, Program Strategy & Delivery,
Internal Medicine & Neuroscience

From infectious diseases to respiratory and metabolic disorders, internal medicine research has made remarkable advancements across various indications, achieving breakthroughs that have directly benefited patients. This progress is a testament to the strong collaboration between physicians and clinical research professionals, who work hand in hand to translate scientific discoveries into practical treatments.

At TFS HealthScience, we recognize the critical role of internal medicine expertise in clinical research. Our extensive network of clinical sites provides unique access to relevant, region-specific expertise from local internists, ensuring that internal medicine trials align with current patient needs. Sara’s long-time work in this field has led her to understand just how valuable TFS’s commitment to internal medicine research is. “We understand the complexities of internal medicine indications, and through our specialized clinical research services, we strive to conduct trials that not only meet regulatory standards but also make a real difference in patients’ lives.”

As we proudly celebrate National Internal Medicine Day, it’s essential to acknowledge the profound impact of internal medicine physicians on clinical research. The expertise within the complexities of the human body, patient-focused approach, and close collaboration with knowledgeable CROs create a distinctive synergy that drives medical progress. In the ever-evolving landscape of medicine, this partnership remains a powerful force for advancing internal medicine research and improving healthcare outcomes, offering hope to patients worldwide.