Abstract
Background: The effectiveness of any national healthcare system is highly correlated with the strength of primary care within that system. A strong research basis is essential for a firm and vibrant primary care system. General practitioners (GPs) are at the centre of most primary care systems. Objectives: To inform on actions required to increase research capacity in general practice, particularly in low capacity countries, we collected information from the members of the European General Practice Research Network (EGPRN) and the European World Organization of Family Doctors (Wonca).Methods: A qualitative design including eight semi-structured interviews and two discursive workshops were undertaken with members of EGPRN and Wonca Europe. Appreciative inquiry methods were utilized. Krueger’s (1994) framework analysis approach was used to analyse the data.Results: Research performance in general practice requires improvements in the following areas: visibility of research; knowledge acquisition; mentoring and exchange; networking and research networks; collaboration with industry, authorities and other stakeholders. Research capacity building (RCB) strategies need to be both flexible and financially supported. Leadership and collaboration are crucial.Conclusion: Members of the GP research community see the clear need for both national and international primary care research networks to facilitate appropriate RCB interventions. These interventions should be multifaceted, responding to needs at different levels and tailored to the context where they are to be implemented.
Highlights
The effectiveness of any national healthcare system is strongly correlated with the strength and position of primary care within that system [1]
General practitioners (GPs) are central to the primary care system in most European countries and they have an integral role in assessing the health needs of the population
The themes, which were identified in workshops and interviews, categorized into barriers, solutions and outcomes are summarized in Table 3 and are classified at an individual, organizational and environmental level. These are combined and presented under the five main overarching strategies suggested in our findings to improve Research capacity building (RCB) in general practice across Europe
Summary
The effectiveness of any national healthcare system is highly correlated with the strength of primary care within that system. Conclusion: Members of the GP research community see the clear need for both national and international primary care research networks to facilitate appropriate RCB interventions. These interventions should be multifaceted, responding to needs at different levels and tailored to the context where they are to be implemented. General practitioners (GPs) are central to the primary care system in most European countries and they have an integral role in assessing the health needs of the population.
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