There are, however, several factors that may deter a physician from entering the field. Subtle cultural issues are also involved. Another limiting aspect is the level of competition for highly coveted positions in the biopharmaceutical sector. Greater numbers of physicians are applying for these positions. These industries seek in their physician employees varied and demanding qualities.
Specialized knowledge is one.
For example, several of the largest drug companies, including Novartis, Merck, Bristol-Myers Squibb, and SmithKline Beecham, have significant research efforts under way in several areas relevant to the aging segment of the population and will need gerontologists as part of that effort. Similar scenarios exist for specialists in oncology, virology, pain, epidemiology, respiratory disease, and infectious disease. Experience with patient care may be the most unique and indispensable skill that MDs have to offer. Still other MDs have had experience managing an office or a medical department or a clinical study. Finally, MDs generally have extensive backgrounds in anatomy and physiology, and often are a part of the interdisciplinary teams that prepare a compound for clinical trials.