Perceived importance and interest in research by Chilean primary care providers.

Background: Primary care providers (PCPs) are relevant stakeholders for primary care research (PCR).

Objective: We report the perceived importance and interest in PCR of a national sample of Chilean PCPs.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study targeting Chilean PCPs. An electronic survey assessing perceived relevance of PCR, research training and experience, training interests, and demographics was disseminated through emails and WhatsApp messages. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize data. Logistic regression models were used to estimate adjusted probabilities and 95% confidence intervals for high interest in PCR, high interest in using research methods, and high interest in receiving research training, and predictors of these outcomes.

Results: A total of 387 providers completed the online survey. Only 26.4% of PCPs had research experience as a principal or co-investigator. However, most clinicians perceived PCR as very important (92.5%) and were interested in using research methods (90.7%) and receiving training (94.3%). There were no statistically significant differences in these perceptions between provider's discipline, role, sex, age, and geographical location after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusions: Despite few Chilean PCPs have research training, a large majority perceive it as important, are interested in using it in their practice and would like to receive training.