Research training: Validating a key questionnaire on systematic reviews and meta-analysis for medical genetics residents in Mexico

Introduction

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are critical in Evidence-Based Medicine, representing the highest level of scientific evidence. Despite the inclusion of Research Methodology and Statistics in medical curricula, the publication rate among residents remains low. This study focuses on residents in the Medical Genetics specialty in Mexico City, illustrating challenges faced in a developing country.

Methods

Using both qualitative and quantitative methods, from the perspective of the Curriculum Action Research movement, the study surveyed 25 residents from eight hospitals in Mexico City. The information was collected using the proposed evaluation instrument, which was modified for validation.

Results

In this study, we showed that 64% had published work, but only 12.5% had completed systematic reviews. A significant proportion perceived not receiving formal training in Research Methodology (4%) or Statistics (52%). Key barriers identified were lack of time (56%), insufficient research experience (46%), cost or lack of resources (44%), and the administrative procedures required being very complicated (44%). The study developed and validated a questionnaire to assess knowledge, which demonstrated good reliability and construct validity with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.85, a Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure of 0.505 and a significant Bartlett's test of sphericity (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The findings highlight substantial gaps in practical research skills and suggest that the current curriculum inadequately integrates Research Methodology and Statistics. This underscores the need for more effective incorporation of these subjects into training programs to enhance residents' research capabilities. Addressing these gaps could improve publication rates and overall research output among medical residents.