[Scientific production in health science in Colombia, 1993-2003].

OBJECTIVE

Analysing scientific production related to health research between 1993 to 2003 in Colombia to generate information allowing a more focused investment in public health research.

METHODS

Bibliometric indicators were used to analyse scientific production registered in MEDLINE and LILACS. Trends in the number of publications per year were analysed, as well as publications per research area, research centres and journal characteristics.

RESULTS

Health research production in Colombia is mainly published in international journals. Most published papers are linked to basic biomedical research overshadowing other areas of health research such as clinical or public health research. Universities are the main entities producing knowledge re health and their participation has increased during the last few years.

CONCLUSIONS

Colombian health research production has increased during the last few years as shown by the increased numbers of Colombian papers in MEDLINE and LILACS during the period being studied. However, this production is still lower than that of other Latin American countries having similar socioeconomic and demographic conditions.