Dissemination of medical research findings among medical researchers in a tertiary institution in Uganda

Abstract

Background: Dissemination of research findings is a key obligation for researchers. It increases access to evidence and the ability to use and apply the evidence. Repackaging of research findings to inform policy and practice is not yet embraced in many low-and-middle income countries that have under-resourced health care systems. Objective: To determine the methods of communication of research findings by researchers at the Makerere University College of Health Sciences as well as the facilitators and barriers faced while disseminating the findings. Methods: This was a concurrent nested mixed-methods study among researchers. Key informant interviews and self-administered questionnaires were used. The collected Qualitative data was examined through thematic analysis. Quantitative data were analysed with STATA version 15.0, analysing categorical variables using frequencies and percentages. Results: Of 176 researchers involved in the quantitative survey, more than half (60%, n=106) were males and 40.9%(n=84/176) were lecturers. The most used dissemination method was journal publications (71.6%, n=126) followed by presentations in conferences/workshops (62.5%, n=110). Twelve researchers participated as key informant interviewees. Themes that emerged included: benefits, facilitators and challenges faced in research communication. Conclusions: Research findings are commonly disseminated through journals and conference presentations. However, researchers face challenges like financial constraints, time limitations, and misrepresentation of findings.