EVALUATION OF GEORGIAN MEDICAL DOCTORS' RESEARCH EXPERIENCE AND PERCEPTIONS TOWARD COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH WITH...

Collaboration between clinical practitioners and academic institutions is a cornerstone of evidence-based medicine and plays a crucial role in improving healthcare quality and patient outcomes. However, physician engagement in research remains inconsistent globally and is often hindered by structural, educational and institutional barriers.

To assess Georgian medical doctors' research experience and their perceptions regarding collaboration with academic institutions.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using an anonymous online questionnaire distributed among practicing physicians across Georgia between June and October 2025. The survey assessed demographic characteristics, academic involvement, research activity, publication practices, perceived barriers and attitudes toward collaboration. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and inferential statistics, including the chi-square test.

A total of 81 practicing physicians participated. While 74% were involved in teaching activities, 67% had no publications in the previous two years, increasing to 95% among non-academically affiliated physicians. Most respondents (80%) had experience conducting research with students and 83% expressed willingness to continue such collaboration. Over half (56%) reported having unpublished clinical cases. The most frequently identified barriers were lack of time, limited funding and insufficient scientific writing skills. Notably, most of the participants expressed interest in collaborating with universities (86%) and participating in research training programs (89%).

Despite strong interest in research collaboration, structural and educational barriers limit research productivity among Georgian physicians. Academic affiliation was significantly associated with higher publication activity, while clinical experience was not a determining factor. Strengthening clinical - academic partnerships and implementing targeted training programs may significantly enhance research capacity.