Background: The fundamental principles of healthcare practices and policies are derived from good quality research. Doctors collectively are a source of vast sums of invaluable information. This information if effectively utilized can improve and strengthen the healthcare system. Our study provides a comprehensive overview of the ecosystem of an Indian medical researcher. Objectives: To understand (1) the obstacles faced by medical professionals (2) the challenges encountered at various steps (3) the gaps in research knowledge and (4) the means to rectify them. Method: Doctors from medical schools, hospitals, and in private practices were approached. Data were collected through online and physical questionnaire. Data were analyzed and studied. Results: The total number of participants in this study is 212. Case reports (51.9%) and case-control studies (51.14%) are the most frequently conducted types of research. Lack of access to research journals (43.9%) and absence of proper guidance or mentorship (37.39%) are the commonly faced challenges among individuals who have pursued research, whereas busy schedule is the top-cited reason for not pursuing research (34.24%) and discontinuing research (57.4%). Coordinating time schedule with mentees is a challenge for mentors (49.2%). Doctors also face the greatest difficulty (48.12%) and delay (47.4%) in the publication process. On the other hand, personal interest (60.15%) and job requirement (46.61%) are the top facilitators for research. A small percentage has or knows someone that has plagiarized (21.32%) or falsified data (33.49%). Most of the doctors agree that research experience should be a mandatory part of undergrad training (81.6%). Conclusion: We believe interest, impact and importance of research can be the best developed and emphasized in the training years. Institutional support, adequate mentorship and an uplifting research environment can go a long way in motivating the doctors and tackling the challenges they face.

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Background: Since its advent in the 17 th century, vaccines have come a long way in preventing diseases and raising the standards of health across the globe. In adults, vaccine-preventable diseases such as pneumonia, hepatitis B, tetanus etc. are a source of morbidity and mortality. However, in India, much like the rest of the world, children remain the focus of vaccination and its importance and need in adults is yet to be emphasized. Objectives: A cross-sectional study to gauge the perceptions and attitudes towards adult vaccinations. Methods: Individuals working in the information technology sector of companies were approached. Data was collected via an online and physical questionnaire. Responses were documented in Microsoft Excel following which data compilation and analysis was carried out. Results: In our study population (N=171), only 31.57% were aware of adult vaccines. 6.43% believed that vaccines do not prevent illness. 13.11% believed that vaccines themselves caused illnesses. 54.38% of individuals believed in herd immunity. 70.76% of the study population did not keep a record of the vaccines they have taken. 75.43% answered that taking vaccinations does not add a financial burden. 59.64% did not know where to go in order to take the vaccines. Most commonly received vaccines were Hepatitis B and Varicella while the majority of the participants had not been recommended pneumococcal, Tdap/Td, HPV or typhoid vaccines. Conclusion:Our study shows that the perceptions towards adult vaccines stems from lack of knowledge and not from hostility towards adult vaccines. Research and surveillance systems are required to assess ways to optimize immunization coverage in target populations. Individuals and health care providers must be educated on the importance of adult vaccines in order to increase its reception.

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