I.CSP- Barriers to Research In Primary Care in Portugal- a cross-sectional study.

Margarida Gil Conde, Raquel Ramos, Sandra Amaral, Maria Beatriz Morgado, Gil Correia, Carolina Reis Penedo

Keywords: General Practice; Health Services Research

Background:

Primary Care, despite its research potential, faces widespread barriers globally, hindering professionals' engagement. This study synthesizes the main barriers identified by professionals in conducting research.

Research questions:

What are the main Barriers for Research in Primary Care in Portugal?

Method:

An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted through online surveys targeting health professionals engaged in Primary Health Care in Portugal. The sample aimed for representation across professions and regions. Surveys encompassed demographic profiles, research experience, affiliations with research entities, and perceived training needs. Ethical approval was obtained, and statistical analyses are ongoing.

Results:

Initial findings from the demographic characterization reflect a diverse sample composition across professions, regions, and healthcare units within Portugal. Insights into barriers to research align with global experiences, emphasizing time constraints, inadequate resources, and a mindset favouring clinical experience over research evidence. Ongoing statistical analyses intend to provide deeper insights into these barriers across professional groups and geographic regions.

Conclusions:

The study's preliminary findings echo global trends, highlighting persistent barriers obstructing research engagement in Primary Care. The ongoing statistical analysis aims to dissect these barriers and unveil nuanced differences among professional groups, regional contexts, and affiliations with research entities. The discussion will delve into the implications of these findings, potential strategies to overcome barriers and future directions to foster a research culture within Primary Health Care in Portugal. This comprehensive study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of barriers to research engagement within Primary Health Care, offering insights for policy interventions and strategies to encourage research among healthcare professionals in Portugal.

Points for discussion:

Are the barriers for research in PHC in Portugal similar to other countries?

What can be proposed solutions for the identified barriers?

How to improve research capacity in PHC in Europe?

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