Related Experiment Videos
Career plans for trainees in internal medicine residency programs.
Richard A Garibaldi1, Carol Popkave, Wayne Bylsma
1Department of Medicine, University of Connecticut, School of Medicine, Farmington, 06030-3229, USA.
Summary
Fewer internal medicine residents are choosing generalist careers, with a significant decline observed between 1998 and 2003. This trend impacts future patient care, with factors like patient relationships and work-life balance influencing choices.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Internal Medicine Residency Training
- Career Development
Background:
- A declining interest in primary care disciplines among medical students is noted.
- Internal medicine residency programs are experiencing shifts in resident career aspirations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the career plans of internal medicine residents.
- To investigate the reasons behind residents' choices for generalist or subspecialist paths.
Main Methods:
- Annual questionnaires administered to residents in Internal Medicine In-Training Examination from 1998-2003.
- A detailed survey in 2002 explored specific reasons for career choices.
Main Results:
- A steady decrease in residents planning generalist careers: 54% in 1998 to 27% in 2003 (PGY3s).
- In 2003, only 19% of first-year residents (PGY1s) intended to practice general medicine.
- Generalist choices influenced by patient relationships, practice scope, ambulatory care, and family time; women residents favored family-friendly disciplines.
Conclusions:
- A dramatic decrease in internal medicine residents pursuing general medicine careers is evident.
- This trend is projected to continue, potentially impacting future patient healthcare delivery.
- Factors influencing career choices include work-life balance and patient interaction.