How Translational Medicine Is Progressively Redefining Healthcare

Book excerpt: The preliminary idea behind translational medicine, conducting biological research to treat diseases, is not a new concept. But, scientists have been serious about placing the patient at all levels of the research process – right at the basic science level phase and all the way to the bedside – since only the 1990s. Today, translational research is a scientific field, although multidisciplinary. That innovation stemmed from the discoveries of new diseases and new technologies that allow healthcare professionals to have new perspectives on how to better and more efficiently treat patients. Translational medicine is viable, and it has already proved itself in many areas. Normally, every great discovery or innovation comes with both rewards and challenges, and continuous improvement is what keeps it alive. Translational research, an innovative concept, is not impervious to that rule. This paper examines the antecedents of translational medicine and how it came about. It considers the importance of incorporating basic science, applied science or clinical research, and the patient at every turn of the processes by analyzing the importance of translational research and its direct applications. On the other hand, this paper considers the challenges faced by translational medicine in an age where healthcare costs are skyrocketing, and suggests what can be done to circumvent the downsides. Finally, because the field is relatively new and promising, the discussion that follows also considers the outlook for translational medicine, and how important it is for scientists – artificial intelligence experts, computer, or bioengineers, healthcare professionals and healthcare management professionals – to lay right now the groundwork for future generations.