Variability in research culture across busy catheterisation labs in the Asia-Pacific region.

Abstract

Information related to research culture in the busy catheterisation (cath) labs across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is sparse. The aims of this study were to examine the variability in research culture in busy cath labs in the APAC region and to propose a roadmap for hospitals to develop in-house research capabilities in conjunction with industry and academia. Data related to research practices in the APAC region were collected from busy cath labs (at least 250 angioplasty/year) and analysed. Results were shared with research experts to understand the challenges in institutional research and create a roadmap for hospitals to develop research capabilities. A total of 220 respondents from 62 cath labs (88.6%) across 13 APAC countries participated in the survey. A wide variation was noted in research culture across APAC countries. Well-established infrastructure was reported in Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, and Japan. Large multicentre trials were common in South Korea, while routine follow-ups were common in Japan. Linking medical records across hospitals/states was considered challenging. Research exposure and training were limited in the APAC region. The experts suggested a roadmap, including creating a conducive regulatory environment, forming synergistic goals, training programs for the professionals involved in research, and leveraging best practices, for improving the research culture in APAC. Clinical research in cardiology has grown significantly in the APAC region, with a huge research potential in China and India. Implementing measures to improve research training and involvement of the industry will boost the research culture in the APAC region.