While there are no hard and fast rules that always apply, there are some salient differences that I have listed below, but exceptions are always there: Research oriented physician focuses on groups of people whereas a clinician focuses on the individual. Research oriented physician has a concern for evidence-based medicine whereas a clinician has a concern for personalized medicine. Research oriented physician likes statistics and science whereas a clinician likes technology and art/skill.
Research oriented physician is interested in the first line of treatment whereas a clinician would be more interested in the second and third line treatment. Research oriented physician has a concern for costs and risks whereas a clinician has a concern for advantages and possibilities.
