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. 2020 Aug 25;9(8):4053-4061.
doi: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_369_20. eCollection 2020 Aug.

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

Sanjana Chetana Shanmukhappa  1 , Rahul R Abraham  1 , Vinyas Shraffi Venkatesh  2 , Rithika R Abraham  3
Affiliations

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

Sanjana Chetana Shanmukhappa et al. J Family Med Prim Care. .

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.

Keywords: Barriers; challenges; data falsification; mentorship; motivators; plagiarism; research.

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Conflict of interest statement

There are no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Graphical representation of questions applicable to both groups
Figure 2
Figure 2
Pictorial representation of the motivators and barriers to research in the Indian medical field
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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