Clinical Research in Saudi Arabia: Trainee Knowledge and Attitude

Abstract

Background Clinical research is an integral part of medical and surgical residency programmes, as well as medical school. Aim This study aimed to investigate attitudes toward, the experience of, and perceived barriers to, conducting clinical research in the medical and surgical fields in Saudi Arabia. We also aimed to explore attitudes toward article processing charges and submission fees. Methods A cross-sectional study conducted in Saudi Arabia during the months of May-June 2021. The inclusion criteria were trainees in various medical and surgical specialities. Results The majority of participants conducted at least one research project, representing 92.5% (n=185); of those, 77.3% (n=143) had already published their research. While 33.5% (n=67) of participants felt comfortable designing, leading and critically appraising articles, only 17.3% (n=34) were comfortable using statistical software. Barriers to clinical research include lack of personal interest, lack of interest on the part of programme directors/mentors, inadequate support from mentors/assistants, being overwhelmed with educational activities and examinations, lack of reward and/or motivation, and difficulties obtaining an appropriate sample. Conclusion This article provides new insight into the knowledge of, and attitude toward, clinical research among Saudi Arabian trainees, and discusses the implications thereof and the future direction of clinical research in Saudi Arabia.