Arguments for and against a career in surgery: a qualitative analysis

Area of Science:

• Medical Sociology
• Surgical Workforce Studies
• Professional Development in Medicine

Background:

• The surgical profession faces a shortage due to declining interest among graduates.
• External influences from health economists and politicians impact surgeons' professional independence.
• Limited research exists on factors motivating surgeons to remain in the profession.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the arguments for and against pursuing a career in surgery.
• To understand the perspectives of board-certified surgeons in Switzerland.
• To identify factors influencing career choices within surgery.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative content analysis was performed on arguments from 334 board-certified surgeons.
• Surgeons responded to questions regarding career pros and cons.
• Mayring's content analysis method was utilized to categorize surgeon statements.

Main Results:

• Surgeons provided 790 arguments for and 981 against a surgical career.
• "Personal Experience in Daily Professional Life" was the top reason for choosing surgery (18.7%).
• "Specific Training Conditions" (20%) and "Work-life Balance" were significant factors against pursuing surgery.

Conclusions:

• Unfavorable working conditions and regulations are primary surgeon complaints.
• Personal experiences positively influence career continuation.
• New organizational frameworks are needed to retain surgeons.