Motivators and barriers to research among doctors in the Indian medical scenario: A cross-sectional study from Karnataka, India

Abstract

Background: The fundamental principles of healthcare practices and policies are derived from good quality research. Doctors collectively are a source of vast sums of invaluable information. This information if effectively utilized can improve and strengthen the healthcare system. Our study provides a comprehensive overview of the ecosystem of an Indian medical researcher. Objectives: To understand (1) the obstacles faced by medical professionals (2) the challenges encountered at various steps (3) the gaps in research knowledge and (4) the means to rectify them. Method: Doctors from medical schools, hospitals, and in private practices were approached. Data were collected through online and physical questionnaire. Data were analyzed and studied. Results: The total number of participants in this study is 212. Case reports (51.9%) and case-control studies (51.14%) are the most frequently conducted types of research. Lack of access to research journals (43.9%) and absence of proper guidance or mentorship (37.39%) are the commonly faced challenges among individuals who have pursued research, whereas busy schedule is the top-cited reason for not pursuing research (34.24%) and discontinuing research (57.4%). Coordinating time schedule with mentees is a challenge for mentors (49.2%). Doctors also face the greatest difficulty (48.12%) and delay (47.4%) in the publication process. On the other hand, personal interest (60.15%) and job requirement (46.61%) are the top facilitators for research. A small percentage has or knows someone that has plagiarized (21.32%) or falsified data (33.49%). Most of the doctors agree that research experience should be a mandatory part of undergrad training (81.6%). Conclusion: We believe interest, impact and importance of research can be the best developed and emphasized in the training years. Institutional support, adequate mentorship and an uplifting research environment can go a long way in motivating the doctors and tackling the challenges they face.

An indirect evaluation of medical residents’ research writing skills by research synopsis review

“…Residents found the elements of statistical analysis and sample size as difficult tasks, with 36.48% having little understanding of them. 16 Another study showed that medical students had moderate knowledge of biostatistics, with 75% of them saying they were unable to read and write the statistical portion of a research paper. 17…”

Research Capacity, Motivators and Barriers to Conducting Research Among Healthcare Providers in Tanzania’s Public Health System: A Mixed Methods Study

“…Many health research institutions in sub-Saharan African countries do not have basic access to information communication technology infrastructure, internet connectivity and library facilities (27). Similarly, time limitations in research participation in both men and women has been well-documented in other LMICs (25,37,41,44) and also some HICs (25,45,46). Mentors, local and international collaboration, and the desire to solve problems emerged as facilitators in our study for engagement in conducting research, similar to other studies (17,39,(47)(48)(49).…”

Research Methodology Course for Postgraduate Students by National Medical Commission

“…It is heartening to note that most doctors who pursued research did it for personal interest and recognition rather than just monetary benefits. [ 15 ] The significant challenges in performing pertinent and methodical research are lack of knowledge, lack of mentor/guide, and other resources like access to journals and funding. A medical student echoed similar challenges.…”