Exploring barriers, needs, and facilitators for clinical and translational research in Oklahoma: A sequential...

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Translational Medicine
• Health Equity

Background:

• Clinical and translational research (CTR) is essential for improving health outcomes.
• Success in CTR depends on institutional support, infrastructure, and workforce capacity.
• Understanding specific challenges in diverse regions is vital for targeted improvements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore barriers, needs, and facilitators for conducting CTR in Oklahoma.
• To identify strengths and gaps within Oklahoma's research ecosystem.
• To inform strategies for strengthening CTR capacity in underserved regions.

Main Methods:

• A sequential, descriptive mixed-methods design was used.
• Survey data (n=164) assessed infrastructure, funding, and workforce needs.
• Qualitative focus groups (n=23) explored researchers' experiences and institutional challenges.

Main Results:

• Key barriers include lack of protected research time (23.9%) and limited pilot funding (15.3%).
• Researchers need centralized tools for networking, writing, and data access.
• Facilitators include professional development and mentoring, but reliance on a single source (OSCTR) was noted.

Conclusions:

• Oklahoma's CTR infrastructure has expanded but requires improvements in mentorship, data access, and institutional support.
• Investing in decentralized systems, bridge funding, and structured mentorship is recommended.
• Findings can inform policy for strengthening CTR in Oklahoma and similar regions.