Recruitment trumps retention: results of the 2008/09 CMA Rural Practice Survey
Tara S Chauban1, Michael Jong, Lynda Buske
1Department of Research, Policy and Ethics, Canadian Medical Association, Ottawa, Ont., Canada. tara.chauhan@cma.ca
Summary
Financial incentives are not the primary driver for rural physicians. Practice and lifestyle factors are more crucial for physician retention in rural communities, necessitating community focus on these aspects.
Area of Science:
- Medical sociology
- Rural health policy
Background:
- The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) surveyed rural practitioners in 2008.
- The survey investigated incentives, satisfaction, migration intentions, and retention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand the motivations and retention factors for physicians in rural practice.
- To identify key areas for improving rural physician recruitment and retention.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 1960 rural practitioners, with 642 responses (33% response rate).
- Longitudinal analysis was possible due to similarities with previous surveys.
- Data collected by the CMA Canadian Collaborative Centre for Physician Resources and the Society of Rural Physicians of Canada.
Main Results:
- Over 70% of physicians over 45 received no incentives, versus 41% of younger physicians.
- Younger physicians valued financial incentives more, but personal incentives and lifestyle were also key.
- Practicing full skill set (84%) and lifestyle (82%) were highly valued; 14% planned to move within 2 years.
- Physicians indicated a desire for reasonable workload, professional backup, and locum support to stay.
Conclusions:
- Cash incentives are less critical than practice and lifestyle factors for rural physician choice.
- Retention strategies should prioritize workload, professional support, and lifestyle.
- Communities must invest in retention to secure their long-term physician workforce.
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