Práctica investigativa del docente de Ciencias Médicas en Cuba: revisión sistemática de un balance contemporáneo

Abstract

Introduction: Research practice among medical science educators in Cuba is governed by a rigorous regulatory framework. However, actual scientific output faces structural visibility challenges and contextual technological limitations within the framework of global academic evaluation trends.Objective: To synthesize the available scientific evidence regarding the characteristics, limitations, incentives, and determining factors of research practice among medical science educators in Cuba between 2016 and 2025.Method: A structured systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 statement guidelines. International and regional databases (PubMed, Scopus, SciELO Cuba, LILACS, CUMED) were searched. Methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Data and the transparent protocol were openly deposited in Zenodo and OSF.Resultados: High intrinsic motivation linked to professional prestige and proficiency in qualitative approaches were identified. However, weaknesses persist in biostatistics, scientific writing in English, and a marked peripheral concentration of publications in national journals. The primary global limiting factor is healthcare overwork, which drastically reduces protected research time.Conclusions: A critical gap exists between the policy requirements of Resolution No. 145/2023 and the actual operational and material conditions of educators in a resource-limited environment. It is essential to transition toward a comprehensive institutional model that guarantees protected time, advanced analytical training, and optimization of technological access.Keywords: Research practice; Higher medical education; Scientific production; Medical educator; Cuba.