An assessment of training needs for accessing electronic resources among health professionals in Sri Lanka: a qualitative study

This study aimed to assess the training needs for accessing electronic resources among health professionals in Sri Lanka. Thirty two (32) postgraduate medical trainees from 32 medical specialties who were attached to the Postgraduate Institute of Medicine (PGIM) were selected as study population.  Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were used as the research instrument. Thirty two (32) trainees were divided into four groups; each group consisted of eight (08) participants.  Data was analyzed by using QDA Miner lite open software. The major themes and sub themes were developed from the FGDs with postgraduate medical trainees. Results revealed that postgraduate trainees need information primarily for the purpose of research and publications (78.5% or 22). They also added that they need information for their clinical practices (60.7% or 17) during their PG education. Moreover, almost 100% of the trainees agreed that they need information for writing literature reviews. Majority of the respondents (89.3%) claimed that they search the internet to obtain the required information in view of enhancing and updating their medical knowledge. Most of the respondents (n=16) said that they prefer electronic journals and internet resources because they felt that electronic resources are more convenient and up to date. Further the importance of Evidence Based Medicine and the need for systematic reviews were highlighted at the FGDs. Regarding the format of sources 78% of them preferred to read electronic resources. All the trainees highly impressed that they need training on information literacy skills especially in searching techniques. Almost all trainees accepted that they need professional training in accessing electronic resources. In each group very few trainees (25%) had attended once or twice in the library orientations and hands on workshops on accessing electronic information which were conducted by the PGIM library. From the results of the FGDs, it is concluded that all trainees expect a high skill training programme during their postgraduate medical education. Therefore, this study recommends a well-organized training program including basic computer skills and searching techniques for medical postgraduate trainees.