• Robles M
• Krueger J
• Moonaz S
• Whedon J

• Chiropractic Research
• National Institutes of Health (United States)
• Open Access Document
• Students, Chiropractic

Objective: As the chiropractic profession continues to grow, it is important for chiropractors and chiropractic students to remain up to date on current research. However, not all chiropractic students are effectively trained to locate and appraise research and thus practice evidence-based care. Students report a lack of skills, confidence, and opportunity to participate in research activities. The best way to learn is by doing, but there are few opportunities for chiropractic students to engage in mentored research. However, one such opportunity is the Research Enhancement Award Program (REAP), offered by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The objective of the program is to provide graduate students with an opportunity for mentored, hands-on participation in meritorious biomedical or healthcare research. This R15 funding mechanism is targeted exclusively toward institutions with relatively little NIH funding and therefore represents a good opportunity for chiropractic schools to obtain their first federal research funding.

Discussion: This paper describes the experience of students at two chiropractic schools who were selected to participate in R15 funded research. The students gained hands-on experience in research opportunities including planning, designing, and drafting their own manuscripts. They observed and engaged with leaders in chiropractic and spine care research as they reviewed, interpreted, and discussed federally funded research activity. The students gained invaluable experience attending conferences and lectures and were mentored by leading investigators in the field.

Conclusion: This approach to student participation in research created a positive experience that enhanced their skills in evidence-based practice (EBP), enriched the student experience, and generated their interest in careers as clinician-researchers. Opportunities for more students to participate in hands-on research via R15 funding will increase skill in EBP and research and foster the next generation of leaders in the chiropractic profession.

Author keywords: Evidence-Based Medicine; Chiropractic; Medical Education

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