Resident versus program director perceptions about PM&R research training

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Rehabilitation Research
• Physician Training

Background:

• Effective research training is crucial for resident development in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R).
• Understanding resident and program director perceptions of research support is vital for program improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and compare resident and program director perspectives on research training, resources, mentorship, and encouragement in PM&R programs.
• To identify discrepancies in perceived research support and training quality.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to all PM&R residents and program directors nationwide.
• Response rates were 55% for residents (1188) and 83% for program directors (77).
• Data collected focused on perceptions of research training adequacy, faculty qualifications, and resource availability.

Main Results:

• Significant discrepancies were found, with residents reporting less adequate training in statistics (24% vs 47%), research design (40% vs 73%), and paper writing (26% vs 61%) compared to directors' perceptions.
• Residents rated faculty qualifications lower (2.8/5) than program directors (3.2/5).
• Awareness of research resources was lower among residents for research coordinators (19% vs 31%), statistical support (36% vs 69%), and library assistance (67% vs 97%).

Conclusions:

• A notable gap exists between resident and program director perceptions regarding the availability and quality of research training and support in PM&R.
• Interventions are needed to enhance resident research education, improve awareness of resources, and align faculty and resident expectations.