Survey

This study, funded by the North Western Health Board (NWHB) and carried out by the Research & Education Foundation at Sligo General Hospital (SGH), set out to collect and collate information on research activities within the catchment area of the Hospital over a five year period (Jan. 1st 1995 – Nov. 1st 1999). Its purpose was to set the framework for action and resource allocation for the development and implementation of a research strategy and thereby increase the quantum of research undertaken within the NWHB.

A total of 590 persons from all disciplines of the hospital and community care sector were surveyed and 276 responded.
73% of the respondents expressed an interest in research participation and 54% had previously been involved in research. 34% of the respondents had been involved in research in the study period and they submitted brief descriptions of 167 completed projects. A further 269 suggestions for future research were made.

In general, little dedicated funding has been allocated to researchers in the catchment area in the 5 year study period: 22 grants less than £5,000 and a total of 7 grants in the order of £5-100,000 were obtained. Three projects received funding of more than £100,000.
Respondents indicated the involvement of a total of 83 collaborative partners from outside the NWHB of which 37 were from the educational sector, 21 from the health care sector and 11 were international partners, the remainder (14) being from the voluntary sector, industry and other institutions and bodies. 83 research projects involved collaboration with departments within the Health Boards.

The research carried out resulted in a number of publications: 37 scientific papers in peer reviewed journals, 26 Masters degree dissertations and 26 other reports/publications to the NWHB, professional bodies etc.

Participants were asked what they perceive as the main barriers preventing them carrying out research within the NWHB. Overall, time is by far the most significant obstacle with 95% considering it a significant barrier. Lack of personal interest is not a barrier for 75% of the respondents. After time, funding is the most significant barrier (67% considers it significant) followed by lack of research staff (61%) and support (58%). Inadequate research facilities is an obstacle for about half of the respondents.

Discussion

The survey identified major potential for increased research activity in the Sligo General Hospital catchment area of the NWHB. Health professionals of all grades and disciplines showed a strong interest in research. There are, however, a number of obstacles to overcome in order to allow the proposed projects come to fruition.

Lack of time is considered by far the most significant barrier among respondents. This issue is reflected in the working conditions of the health professionals who have participated in research in the study period – one third carried out all their research outside working hours.

The survey confirmed that there has been very little funding made available to or sought by health professionals in this non-academic setting and there is evidence that this lack of funding inhibits research initiatives.

The study also indicates that collaborative research, with educational institutions in particular, has got a foothold in the catchment area. Links with institutions at both local and national level have resulted in a considerable amount of work affirming the potential for further exploration of research alliances.

Health care institutions with a research environment are likely to encourage a “culture of inquiry”. Involvement in research allows health care professionals to remain at the cutting edge of medical evolution encouraging the implementation of evidence based research into clinical practice. It is vital that national funding bodies, health boards and local health care institutions accept the importance of promoting and supporting the research activities of a wide selection of health professionals. This survey has suggested that the level of research interest and experience is substantial outside the academic centres but it is essential that funding, facilities and protected time allow for further promotion of a research culture in such environments.

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank the Research & Education Foundation Advisory Committee and the Public Health Department, NWHB for their advice and assistance as well as the North Western Health Board and Sligo General Hospital for their financial support.

References

1. Murphy AW. Research and development in Irish Primary Care (Editorial). Irish Medical Journal 2000; 93:69
2. Murphy JFA. Funding medical research (Editorial). Irish Medical Journal 1998; 91:112
3. Swales JD. Science and health care: an uneasy partnership. Lancet 2000; 355: 1637-40 MB Jesen, R Quinn, PJ Wright, J Williams Sligo General Hospital, Sligo.