Needs Assessment for Supports to Promote Pediatric Clinical Research Using an Online Survey of the Japanese Children' s Hospitals Association

INTRODUCTION: Infrastructure and the capacity to conduct clinical research in pediatrics have not been fully established in Japan. To elucidate the physicians' perspectives on clinical research, level of experience, existing barriers, and requests for support, we conducted a survey at 34 children's hospitals in Japan. METHODS: In January 2016, an online survey with 13 questions was sent to approximately 2000 physicians working in 34 pediatric hospitals belonging to the Japanese Association of Children's Hospitals and Related Institutions. CONCLUSIONS: The requests for supports were different, depending on the physicians' years after graduation and experience level in clinical research. In order to enhance clinical research in pediatrics, it is essential to provide appropriate types and levels of educational and support programs.