The development of the National Council for Osteopathic Research - Research Network (NCOR-RN): A qualitative focus group study of osteopaths’ views

Abstract

Background

Practice Based Research Networks (PBRNs) are groups of clinicians working with academic organisations to conduct research that answers questions relevant to clinical practice. A PBRN for osteopathy in the UK would be a suitable approach for the National Council for Osteopathic Research to achieve its mission statement of ‘developing a culture of research’.

Objective

We aimed to explore osteopaths’ views on the utility of creating a PBRN and to identify barriers and facilitators to their involvement in a PBRN.

Methods

Focus groups were conducted as part of a free CPD day advertised nationally to all osteopaths to collect qualitative data. A reflexive thematic analysis framework was used to develop themes from the data.

Results

Forty osteopaths took part in 5 focus groups conducted at three locations around the UK. Six themes were developed describing the utility, barriers, and facilitators to developing a PRBN for osteopathy: research experience, finance and time, developing osteopathy, insecurity and identity, integration into practice, and PBRN organisation.

Conclusions

Osteopaths perceived a PBRN had the potential for increasing the evidence base for osteopathy, enhancing the status of the profession, and improving patient care. Various barriers and facilitators to their involvement with a PBRN were identified.