Attitudes and Perceived Barriers to Research Among Residents in Obstetrics and Gynecology in Trinidad and Tobago: A National Multicenter Cross-sectional Study

OBJECTIVES: High-quality research forms the basis of evidence-based practice and sets the foundation for trainees to develop critical thinking skills and approach clinical problems with an inquisitive mind. The attitudes to research however vary widely and there are significant barriers to conducting research relevant to each clinical discipline. Understanding both the attitudes of residents to research and the barriers to conducting research could allow for strategies to improve this core aspect of clinical development. This aim of this study was to characterise current attitudes and perceived barriers towards conducting research among residents in Obstetrics and Gynecology in Trinidad and Tobago. METHODS: An online survey was sent to all residents in the four major public hospitals in Trinidad and Tobago. The 10-min previously piloted questionnaire contained questions related to demographics, career level, research experience, attitudes to research as well as perceived barriers to conducting research. RESULTS: The response rate was 74% (48/65). Although most (77%) respondents were interested in performing research, lack of time (56%) and insufficient training in research (59%) were the main barriers. Lack of mentorship or supervision as well as departmental issues such as access to case notes, electronic databases and bureaucratic issues were also found to hamper a research-oriented environment. CONCLUSION: For residents in Obstetrics and Gynecology, curricula revision is urgently required to include protected research time, training in research methodology, formal and dedicated research mentors in order to promote a research-oriented culture that ensures a greater understanding and output of research in this specialty.