An international survey of physicians' knowledge of biostatistics

Abstract

Objective: The primary aim of our study, an international web-based survey, is to obtain (I-a) physicians' statistical knowledge and (I-b) how this varies by their focus area (basic, internal and surgical). The secondary aim is to address the following questions: (II-a) to specify when in the medical education biostatistics course should be taught and (II-b) to identify the key statistical methods relevant to medical education. Material and Methods: A total of 278 physicians from 59 countries, who were invited to participate in our survey by e-mail, participated in our study. Physicians' data were obtained via a web-based survey. Results: Most of the physicians stated that biostatistics course should be taken at the undergraduate and at the residency. When we investigated the physicians' knowledge of statistical topics there was no difference between resident, specialist and academic staff. Although there were no differences according to statutes in terms of statistical knowledge level, it was observed that the knowledge levels were so low in all statistical topics, except the parametric tests. Especially it was found that the knowledge level about the sampling techniques was at the lowest degree. Conclusion: When the studies were evaluated, it was seen that statistics is one of the most important factors in respect to the reliability of conducted studies. Therefore researchers should have the basic statistical knowledge and have basic knowledge level on the specific statistical methods which are used in their research areas; also should take consultation from the biostatistics specialist. © 2013 by Türkiye Klinikleri.