A survey of the research practice in general medicine departments of Japanese universities: A cross‐sectional study

BACKGROUND: Few studies have focused on research practice in Japanese university general medicine (GM) departments. METHODS: This is a questionnaire‐based cross‐sectional study to clarify the research achievement and associated factors of Japanese university GM department. Univariate analysis was performed to compare the number of English‐language research publications and explanatory variables. RESULTS: Forty‐seven universities responded. Over a 3 years period, the median number of English‐language research publications was 6. Perceived degree of research necessity, staff numbers, collaborative research, conference presentations, and obtaining research grants were significantly associated with a higher number of English‐language research publications. CONCLUSIONS: While GM research output was found to be limited, numerous associated factors can potentially change Japanese GM departments' research environments.