Education Quote by John Abramson
““Flexner's good intentions had laid the groundwork for the specialty- and research-dominated system of medical education that still stands- the more prestigious the school, the greater the emphasis on biomedical research and the less the emphasis on pragmatic medical care.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Overtreated: The Case Against Medical Excess, John Abramson, 2017
Medical education increasingly prioritizes research prestige over practical patient care, especially at elite schools.
In simple terms: Prestige drives research focus, sidelining practical care.
Key Takeaway
Balance research prestige with patient-centered training.
Themes
medical education
research
pragmatism
prestige
patient care
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
policy-oriented
When to use this quote
- Medical school curriculum design
- hospital training programs
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
Biomedical research emphasis
pragmatic care
educational hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can curricula integrate practical care without compromising research excellence?
- What incentives would shift focus toward patient outcomes?
A Different Perspective
High prestige may limit diverse skill development and community health focus.
![“In 1955, amid the great fanfare that accompanied the initial release of the [polio] vaccine, Dr. Jonas Salk was asked who owned the patent. He replied, "Well, the people, I would say. Could you patent the sun?” quote by John Abramson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bcd/john-abramson-70948_quote_in-1955-amid-the-great-fanfare-that-acco_3116656.jpg)
