Pediatric research in Spain: Challenges and opportunities

Introduction

Pediatric research is key for improving the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of childhood diseases. In Spain, however, this vital area of research remains underfunded and underrepresented compared to both domestic research in the adult population and pediatric research in other countries.

Objective

To identify the main barriers to pediatric research in Spain and propose strategies to strengthen its development and integration into the public healthcare system.

Methods

The INVEST-AEP working group conducted an analysis of the current state of pediatric research in Spain. The analysis identified barriers related to funding, training, clinical workloads and bureaucracy, based on which the group proposed several potential improvement strategies.

Results

The main barriers include limited funding (5% of national grants), insufficient training in research (both in undergraduate and residency programs), substantial clinical workloads with no protected research time and insufficient collaborative networks. The situation is even more critical in primary care, and, in addition, research efforts do not receive the recognition they deserve for professional career advancement or the competitive application process for public positions. Potential solutions were identified, such as improvements in medical and residency training, consolidation of structured research networks, dedicated sources of funding for pediatric research, protected research time, centralization of ethics committees and recognition of research in merit-based evaluations.

Conclusions

Urgent strategies are needed to strengthen pediatric research in Spain, including increased investment, specific training programs and collaborative networks. A skilled pediatrician should seamlessly integrate clinical practice, teaching and research. Pediatricians, institutions, universities, and the central and autonomous community governments in Spain need to actively promote pediatric research to improve child health and to position Spain as a leader in the field.