Research and teaching activity in UK occupational physicians.

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Medical Education
• Academic Medicine

Background:

• Research and teaching are crucial for medical professionals, including occupational physicians (OPs).
• Academic skills are vital for evidence-based practice and advancing occupational health (OH).
• Concerns exist regarding the declining UK OH academic base and the research-practice gap, prompting calls for greater practitioner involvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a baseline of research and teaching activities among UK OPs.
• To identify barriers hindering research and teaching participation.
• To inform strategies for overcoming these barriers and strengthening the OH academic base.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was conducted with UK occupational physicians.
• The survey included career profile questions developed through expert panel consensus.
• This formed part of a larger Delphi study focused on UK OH research priorities.

Main Results:

• 213 OPs responded (18% of UK practitioners).
• 76% had undertaken research at some point; 27% were currently research-active.
• 72% had undertaken teaching; 64% were currently teaching-active.
• Significant interest exists in undertaking research (40%) and teaching (42%) among those not currently active.
• Primary barriers identified were lack of time and opportunity, particularly for industry-based OPs facing commercial demands.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a benchmark for academic activity among UK OPs.
• Identified barriers can guide research funding and educational strategies.
• Addressing these barriers is essential to increase participation and develop the UK OH academic base.