Abstract: Objective  To explore and develop a performance evaluation index system that matches the innovation drive of research physicians in teaching hospitals. Methods  Through literature analysis and expert interviews, 30 experts were consulted in two rounds using the Delphi method. Results   An index system suitable for the performance evaluation of research physicians in teaching hospitals was developed, including 4 first-level indicators, 12 second-level indicators, and 38 third-level indicators. Conclusion  In terms of the statistical analysis of experts’ authority degree, experts’ enthusiasm degree and experts’ evaluation uniformity degree, it is proved that this index system is reliable and comprehensive, and provides a basis for the development of the performance index system of research physicians in other teaching hospitals.

Key words: Delphi method, teaching hospita, research physician, performance evaluation, index system