ArticleBMJ open2026
Barriers and facilitators to research data collection in resource-limited settings: a qualitative study of research coordinators in the Nigeria Implementation Science Alliance Network.
Article in BMJ open, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
backgroundThe increasing global burden of long-term illnesses necessitates high-quality data to inform effective interventions, particularly in low-resource settings. Despite the critical role of data collectors in health research, their lived experiences and challenges remain understudied, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Nigeria. This study explored the experiences, barriers and facilitators encountered by field researchers working with individuals living with long-term illnesses.
methodsA qualitative, descriptive phenomenological design was employed, involving in-depth interviews with 12 research coordinators across 12 healthcare facilities in Nigeria. Participants were purposively selected from the Nigeria Implementation Science Alliance-Model Innovation and Research Centres. Data were analysed using Colaizzi's phenomenological method, with thematic analysis to identify key patterns.
resultsField researchers described both rewarding experiences and significant obstacles. While they found value in contributing to impactful research, they faced emotional strain from engaging with sensitive narratives. Key barriers included low health literacy, cultural and religious constraints, hesitation to engage in the study and logistical constraints such as unreliable infrastructure. Facilitators included prefield training, trust-building and support systems. Recommendations emphasised ethical adherence, continuous skill development, context-appropriate incentives and streamlined data collection tools.
conclusionsThe study underscores the need for systemic support for data collectors, including mental health resources, adaptive methodologies and institutional policies that address logistical and emotional issues. These findings advocate for participant-centred, ethically sound research practices to enhance data quality and collector well-being in long-term illness studies.Future research needs to evaluate interventions to optimise data collection processes in LMICs.
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