Exploring the research culture in the health information management profession in Australia

Abstract

Background Research is an important activity that informs knowledge and practice. The research culture within the Australian Health Information Management (HIM) profession has not been previously reported. Objective This study explored the perceptions of HIM practitioners about research in their role to establish if there is a research culture in the Australian HIM profession. Method An online survey was distributed to the HIM community using a snowball recruitment strategy. Results Of the 149 respondents, more than half (54%) identified they possessed research skills from prior education, whilst 40% considered they had a strong knowledgebase in conducting research. However, only a quarter of respondents indicated that they should undertake research in their role. Barriers to undertaking research included recognition, organisational support and time. Discussion The findings from this study reflected other studies within clinical workforces. The lack of recognition and support to incorporate research into practitioner roles has implications for the profession and its body of knowledge. Conclusion Advocating for research to be incorporated into practitioner roles is required to inform knowledge and practice. Increased professional development opportunities may create a stronger research culture within the HIM profession in Australia and strengthen the position of the profession within health.

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“…Empirical evidence on the HIM workforce in general is limited (Butler‐Henderson et al, 2017; HIMAA, 2016). This may, in part, be explained by the lack of a research culture in the profession (Trixie Kemp et al, 2020). This hypothesis is supported by this review in that only commentary or opinion pieces could be identified, no empirical evidence.…”

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“…Using a snowball recruitment strategy, 149 respondents contributed to Kemp et al’s () online survey exploring the research culture in health information management professions. While over half of all responded identified as possessing research skills, less than half this number undertake research as part of their role.…”

“…While over half of all responded identified as possessing research skills, less than half this number undertake research as part of their role. Kemp et al () explore the potential impact on the wider profession that could result from the lack of organisational recognition, support and provision of time.…”

“…While the respondents of Kemp et al’s () study felt competent in their skills base from past training, Bass, Allen, Vanderpool, & Capdarest‐Arest () examine how issues of extending competencies based on an analysis of library school curricula and data from an informal poll. Taking collection organisation as its focus, Bass et al () explore opportunities for education including library school courses and informal learning such as peer support networks, and on‐the‐job learning.…”