Research culture in a regional allied health setting
Donna Borkowski A B C , Carol McKinstry B and Matthew Cotchett B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A Bendigo Health, PO Box 126, Bendigo, Vic. 3552, Australia.
B La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, PO Box 199, Bendigo, Vic. 3552, Australia.
C Corresponding author. Email: dborkowski@bendigohealth.org.au
Australian Journal of Primary Health 23(3) 300-306 https://doi.org/10.1071/PY16085
Submitted: 15 July 2016 Accepted: 13 January 2017 Published: 5 April 2017
Abstract
Research evidence is required to guide best practice, inform policy and improve the health of communities. Current indicators consider allied health research culture to be low. This study aimed to measure the allied health research culture and capacity in a Victorian regional health service. The Research Capacity and Culture tool was used to evaluate research capacity and culture across individual, team and organisation domains. One-way ANOVA was used to determine differences between allied health professions, whereas responses to open-ended questions were themed using open coding. One hundred thirty-six allied health professionals completed the survey. There were statistically significant differences in the organisation domain between social work, physiotherapy and occupational therapy professions; in the team domain, between social work and all other professions. Motivators for conducting research included providing a high-quality service, developing skills and increasing job satisfaction. Barriers included other work roles taking priority, a lack of time and limited research skills. Multi-layered strategies including establishing conjoint research positions are recommended to increase allied health research culture in this regional area.
Additional keywords: allied health professions, regional health care.
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