Bernadine Nsa Ekpenyong, Godwin Ovenseri-Ogbomo, Uchechukwu Levi Osuagwu, Augustine
Ugochukwu Akujobi, Kindness Charles, Philips Ifeanyichukwu Ebisike, Kelechi Mezu-Nnabue,
Udo Ubani, Ikenna Ejinkeonye, Ogechi Nwokedi, Eki Oghre, Nwakaego Ikoro
Abstract
Background: Academic journals are often the primary repositories of evidence-based practice (EBP), a crucial component of high-quality, patient-centred healthcare. Although medical journals have a significant influence on clinical practice and decision-making, a backdrop of perceived reader apathy exists. Here, we describe the readership of the Journal of the Nigerian Optometric Association (JNOA), investigate the attitudes and perceived barriers towards the JNOA.
Methods: Of the 155 optometrists surveyed, aged 39.0 ± 9.8 years, 13 (8.4%) were researchers/ academics, and the majority were women (n=83, 53.5%). Participants’ reading patterns, perceptions of the articles, and suggestions on what could motivate them to read the journal articles were assessed. The chi-square test was used to determine the association between journal readership and individual variables.
Results: Although the majority of participants (90.2%) reported that their clinical practice was guided by evidence, 53% read a scientific article at least once a month, and only 41% (mostly younger optometrists aged 20-40 years) with fewer years of practice experience read the JNOA. Those concerned about the length of the articles (67%, p=0.015) or who felt the articles lacked clinical relevance (75%, p=0.002) were less likely to read JNOA. Presentation format (electronic or hard copies) had no significant effect on readership. Participants felt that providing updates on current clinical practice and having a continuing professional development (CPD) article in JNOA could encourage readership.
Conclusion: Overall, readership of JNOA was low among members, with length of articles and lack of clinical relevance perceived as barriers. Including CPD articles and sections, such as those on clinical relevance, may improve the readership of JNOA.
Keywords: JNOA, Readership, Nigerian Optometrists.