Paediatric Trainee Experience of Multi-site Audit and Research (PEAR), a cross sectional London REACH Network study
Keywords:
postgraduate training, research experience, quality improvement, research cultureAbstract
Objectives
To evaluate the existing experiences and perceived access to research and QI (quality improvement) projects for paediatric trainees in London.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was designed by a subgroup of the London REACH (Research, Evaluation and Audit in Child Health) Network central committee and disseminated to paediatric trainees in London (including those Out of Programme) between July-September 2022. Descriptive comparative analysis between trainee subgroups was undertaken for quantitative data. A thematic analysis was undertaken for qualitative data.
Results
142 responses were received and categorised by demographic (age, gender, ethnicity, primary medical qualification country) and training data (integrated academic training, subspecialty training, less than full time). Strikingly, 89% of trainees wanted more access to research during training. Despite this, 23% reported having capacity for research and only 16% of research activity was undertaken during paid time. 35% had difficulty in identifying research opportunities and supervisors. 99% had experience in local QI projects compared to 37% for multi-site QI projects. Subgroups with more protected time demonstrated greater attainment and access.
Qualitative analysis identified three key themes: recognising the importance of paediatric research, barriers to research within training, and wanting integrated research during training. Notable barriers included variable research culture and limitations in time and commitment.
Conclusions
Trainees desired greater involvement in research related activities yet demonstrated difficulty in accessing opportunities. Therefore, the provision of equitable access to research will require expansion of integrated protected time for all trainees and commitment to developing a positive culture for research and quality improvement.
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Copyright (c) 2023 Rhys Dore, Michelle D'Souza, Neelakshi Ghosh, Dominic Carr, Eva Loucaides, the REACH collaborative
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