Variability in research culture across busy catheterisation labs in the Asia-Pacific region.

BACKGROUND: Information related to research culture in the busy catheterisation (cath) labs across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is sparse.

AIMS: The aims of this study were to examine the variability in research culture in busy cath labs in the APAC region and to propose a roadmap for hospitals to develop in-house research capabilities in conjunction with industry and academia.

METHODS: Data related to research practices in the APAC region were collected from busy cath labs (at least 250 angioplasty/year) and analysed. Results were shared with research experts to understand the challenges in institutional research and create a roadmap for hospitals to develop research capabilities.

RESULTS: A total of 220 respondents from 62 cath labs (88.6%) across 13 APAC countries participated in the survey. A wide variation was noted in research culture across APAC countries. Well-established infrastructure was reported in Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, and Japan. Large multicentre trials were common in South Korea, while routine follow-ups were common in Japan. Linking medical records across hospitals/states was considered challenging. Research exposure and training were limited in the APAC region. The experts suggested a roadmap, including creating a conducive regulatory environment, forming synergistic goals, training programs for the professionals involved in research, and leveraging best practices, for improving the research culture in APAC.

CONCLUSIONS: Clinical research in cardiology has grown significantly in the APAC region, with a huge research potential in China and India. Implementing measures to improve research training and involvement of the industry will boost the research culture in the APAC region.