By Katie Caviness-Crolley
The Johns Hopkins Division of General Internal Medicine (GIM) is celebrating its 19th year hosting the Housestaff Research Awards – a nationwide competition designed to recognize and honor exceptional research contributions by medical residents. These prestigious awards were established to highlight innovative and impactful work – fostering excellence while inspiring future leaders in academic GIM.
Over time, the program has evolved into more than just an awards ceremony; it has become a powerful tool for guiding residents toward pursuing a future in GIM, specifically through and ultimately into careers in academic GIM.
This is a much-needed focus as interest in GIM careers has declined in recent years.
A 2023 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine reveals there may be a shortage of GIM physicians in less than a decade. The study, titled Career Plans of Internal Medicine Residents From 2019 to 2021, finds that significantly fewer residents are choosing to pursue careers in GIM compared to a decade ago, a shift that could severely impact primary health care across the U.S.
In response, Hopkins GIM is playing a pivotal role in reversing this trend by using the Housestaff Research Awards as a platform to showcase the dynamic mentorship, career and healthcare service opportunities available in academic GIM.
Each year, housestaff who have conducted outstanding research in five key areas are honored:
- Medical Education
- Evidence-Based Medicine & Systematic Reviews
- Behavioral Medicine & Health Disparities
- Health Services & Outcomes Research
- Bioethics
The awards, named for internationally regarded mentors and researchers within Hopkins GIM, serve as a gateway for residents to envision their future in academic GIM. This year's recipients will present their award-winning abstracts at a special ceremony on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, from 9 to 11 a.m. in The Johns Hopkins Hospital’s Cader Room.
Want to learn more? Email Katie Caviness-Crolley at [email protected].
