Research training needs assessment among postgraduate trainees at a tertiary hospital in Makkah, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background: The Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) accredits postgraduate medical education programs in Saudi Arabia to ensure they provide quality training that meets professional outcomes per national and international standards. Research activities should be tailored to meet the training needs of postgraduate trainees to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice. These activities should assist trainees in selecting the appropriate methodology for their research, gathering and interpreting data, and evaluating the outcomes of previous research before clinical implementation.

Materials and methods: A needs assessment survey was conducted on postgraduate trainees enrolled in 20 residency programs and 13 fellowship programs at a tertiary hospital in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The aim of the study was to determine the preferred research training content and delivery method most appropriate for postgraduate trainees. The hospital's research center can use this information to design and conduct research training activities based on postgraduate trainees' professional and scientific needs. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26; percentage and frequency were used, and a P value of <0.05 indicated significant differences between groups.

Results: The response rate of postgraduate trainees was 64% (60/94); 78% were enrolled in residency, while 22% were in fellowship training programs. Of the resident respondents, 70% were enrolled in an internal medicine residency program, and 23% of fellow respondents were enrolled in a medical oncology fellowship program.

Conclusion: Priority areas that require training interventions to enhance research knowledge and practice among postgraduate trainees were identified. There are opportunities for addressing the identified training needs by expanding research training program content, designing workshops, and tailoring training to meet professional expectations.