New Orientation of Interdisciplinarity in Medicine: Engineering Medicine

Abstract

The trajectory of human history is characterized by a persistent battle against disease. Over time, the field of medicine has transitioned from enigmatic witch doctors and herbal remedies to a sophisticated realm of contemporary medicine that includes fundamental medical and health sciences, clinical medicine, and public health. Nevertheless, the present phase of medical advancement encounters significant challenges, particularly in effectively translating basic research findings into practical applications in clinical and public health settings. Scientists increasingly collaborate with clinical experts to overcome these obstacles and address specific clinical issues by delving deeper into fundamental mechanisms. This collaborative effort has created a new interdisciplinary field: engineering medicine (EngMed), which focuses on addressing clinical and public health needs by integrating various scientific disciplines. This article discusses the definition, key tasks, significance, educational implications, and future trends in EngMed.