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| Authors | S Azzopardi P Cacciottolo A G Fenech C Galea W Galea M J Grima R Pullicino A M Scerri N Schembri |
| Abstract | Research is pivotal to a countrys medical system: not only to improve the quality of health care but also to stay in touch with the dynamics of the system itself. Aims: To assess attitudes of medical and dental professionals and students towards research, evaluating research conditions, resources, problems encountered. These criteria are used to compare the involvement of students and professionals in Malta with their foreign counterparts. Methods: Two questionnaires were devised; one aimed towards professionals, the other towards students. The questionnaires were distributed both via hard copy and electronically. Filled questionnaires were collected, data was processed and partial results generated.This study is currently ongoing. Thus far, the questionnaires were only collected from professionals. Results: Current results, based on preliminary data from 91 questionnaires completed by professionals show that 74% have carried out some form of research after obtaining professional status. Data generated includes frequency of responses per speciality, number of years of clinical practice, frequency of specific difficulties encountered by researchers during specific phases of their work; attitudes to joint research projects between medical/ dental professionals, other healthcare professionals and non-medical professionals; comparison between part-time and full-time research; effect of gender on frequency of participation; involvement of students. Conclusions: Based on current results, experienced professionals acknowledge the importance of research for advances, improvement and innovation in healthcare professions. This ultimately leads to improved treatment, and subsequently, better quality of life for patients. |
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| Journal | Malta Medical Journal |
| Volume | 15 Issue 1-2/suppl. 2003 |
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| Key words | attitude, dental professionals, medical professionals, research |