Factors associated with research activity among radiologists: results of a Nordic survey

Abstract

Background: Research activities often compete with clinical work and personal life for the time of physician-scientists. To overcome barriers to research, examining the factors affecting research productivity is important. Objectives: To identify potential personal, physician-dependent, and external physician-independent factors affecting researcher productivity in a cohort of Nordic radiologists. Methods: A prospective survey was open to responders from 10 May 2023 to 23 June 2023. The survey was distributed to radiologists and radiology residents in the Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden) through multiple channels. We collected demographic information, details about work and academic careers, and opinions and attitudes on work, research, and personal life using a Likert-scale questionnaire. Results: A total of 192 participants responded (mean age 46.4 (SD: 11.03), 88 (45.8%) males, 103 (53.6%) females). Of the 134 (69.8%) respondents who reported having made any past academic contribution, 88 (46.4%) indicated active research participation. Active researchers expressed more agreement that they have the skills (p < 0.001) and resources (p < 0.001) for research and are able to maintain expertise (p = 0.003). Responders most frequently reported that having time for research (n = 94/155, 60.6%), motivation (n = 56/155, 36.1%), more funding (n = 36/155, 23.2%), and a higher salary (n = 36/155, 23.2%) would increase research involvement. Conclusions: We identified several differences between radiologists who are active in research and those who are not. The participants identified time, financial means, and motivation as key factors that could increase research involvement. Critical relevance statement: Academic radiologists with active research careers report having the necessary skills and resources for research, teaching, and learning more frequently than radiologists less active in research. Key Points: Active researchers are more in agreement with having the skills and resources for research. Active researchers expressed more agreement with interest in teaching, keeping expertise up to date, getting enough sleep, and being less distracted by social media. Researchers with a recent history of funding reported more publications. There may be research potential for physicians engaged in self-financed research.