Developing a positive research culture: A systematic review

Research evidence is required to guide optimal occupational therapy practice and inform health policy. Factors influencing a positive research culture are not fully understood, nor the impact of a positive research culture on... [ view full abstract ]

Research evidence is required to guide optimal occupational therapy practice and inform health policy. Factors influencing a positive research culture are not fully understood, nor the impact of a positive research culture on allied health professionals such as occupational therapists. The aim of this systematic review was to identify factors impacting on allied health research culture and capacity. An extensive search of 11 databases was conducted in June 2015. Studies were included if they were published in English, full text available and reported research findings relating to allied health. Study quality was evaluated using the McMaster critical review forms. Fifteen studies were eligible for inclusion and a meta-analysis was not performed due to heterogeneity between studies. Allied health professionals perceive that their individual research skills are lower in comparison to their teams and organisation. Occupational therapists may lack confidence in their research skills. Motivators for conducting research for allied health professionals include to develop skills, increase job satisfaction and career advancement. Barriers include a lack of time, limited research skills and other work roles taking priority. Multi-layered strategies such as collaborations with external partners and developing research leadership positions, aimed at addressing barriers and enablers are important to enhance allied health research culture and capacity. Further research is required to determine the impact of a positive research culture on career advancement, retention and uptake of evidence-based practice. Taking a whole of organisation approach or targeting individual health professionals interested in research maybe more effective in fostering a positive research culture.