Scientific production of medical students at the University of Panama

Introduction: Research is one of the key distinguishing features of an academic institution. The way an institution grooms its future researchers determines its long term survival. Aim: to determine the scientific production of medical students at the University of Panama. Methods: a descriptive, cross-sectional study, which universe were all medical students enrolled in the second semester of 2011 (1137). The sample was the entire universe. A structured, anonymous and self-administered questionnaire was given to capture their scientific production. Results: we obtained a 73.4% (834) response. The mean age was 20.9 ± 2.2, female 55.5% (463). 64.6% (539) have participated in some research (1099 work done), but only 2.9 % (24) have published in journals (52 publications). 71.3% (595) considered that the most important concern regarding publishing is to increase scientific knowledge. 82.1% (685) stated that the most important limitation for research is the lack of time. Conclusion: 52 publications were the scientific production. 42.3% (22) for research. If the University of Panama wants to improve its current position in the Latin American ranking in terms of research activities, then they should encourage, motivate research and scientific publication from the undergraduate level.