Medical Research Productivity and Barriers from the Perspective of Faculty Members at the University of Tripoli

Abstract

Background University-based research is critical for primary care, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Libya. The current study was aimed at exploring the research productivity and potential barriers among academic medical staff at the University of Tripoli, Libya. Methods A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was done at the University of Tripoli for the period from November 2022 to March 2023 to determine health research barriers among staff members in different medical faculties. Data collected included participant's demographics, years of experience as a faculty member, workplace, academic status, highest educational qualification, education type, and number of research studies published. Data also contained questions around personal, access, administrative, and resource barriers to and facilitators of research activity. Results A total of 132 questionnaires were distributed by the authors, of which only 102 were successfully answered, giving a response rate of 76%. The majority of participants 49 (48.04%) conducted a cross-sectional study, followed by 34 (33.3%) who carried out a review study. The most important reason of doing research was to improve knowledge of the field (62.75%), while 77.47% stated that they made use of and were comfortable using advanced technology in their research activities. The top barriers to research were a lack of financial support (76 [74.51%]), followed by the complex publication process (43 [42.16%]). Lack of writing skills (4 [3.92%]) was the bottom perceived barrier. Conclusion Faculty members at the University of Tripoli face various barriers that can impede their productivity in medical research, such as a lack of resources, and limited research opportunities. These factors, combined with a lack of support from administrators, can lead to low morale and a lack of motivation among faculty members, which can further inhibit their research productivity.