A survey of the research practice in general medicine departments of Japanese universities: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Few studies have focused on research practice in Japanese university general medicine (GM) departments.

Methods: This is a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study to clarify the research achievement and associated factors of Japanese university GM department. Univariate analysis was performed to compare the number of English-language research publications and explanatory variables.

Results: Forty-seven universities responded. Over a 3 years period, the median number of English-language research publications was 6. Perceived degree of research necessity, staff numbers, collaborative research, conference presentations, and obtaining research grants were significantly associated with a higher number of English-language research publications.

Conclusions: While GM research output was found to be limited, numerous associated factors can potentially change Japanese GM departments' research environments.

Keywords: English‐language research publication; Japanese university hospital; general medicine; research practice.