Meeting Increasing Demands for Rural General Surgeons

Area of Science:

• Health Workforce Research
• Surgical Education
• Rural Health

Background:

• Projected shortage of 2,525 general surgeons by 2030 indicates a critical need.
• Existing rural surgical workforce shortages are exacerbated by insufficient preparation.
• Limited research exists on factors influencing surgeons' choice of rural practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review literature on challenges and influencing factors for rural surgical practice.
• To identify interventions to enhance interest and preparation for rural surgery.
• To present successful rural surgical practice models.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review using PubMed and Web of Science.
• Identification and review of studies on rural practice, surgical training, and rural general surgery.
• Analysis focused on four key objectives regarding rural practice.

Main Results:

• Limited research specifically addresses factors influencing surgeons' selection of rural practice.
• Family medicine literature suggests early life experiences, medical training, and community integration are key.
• Further investigation is required into specific drivers for rural surgeons and retention factors.

Conclusions:

• Addressing the projected general surgeon shortage requires focused strategies for rural recruitment and retention.
• Understanding the unique motivators for surgeons choosing rural practice is crucial.
• More research is essential to develop effective interventions for the rural surgical workforce.