[RETIRE WITHOUT LEAVING - DOCTORS WHO CONTINUE TO WORK AFTER RETIREMENT]

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Medical Ethics
• Sociology of Professions

Background:

• Retirement signifies a major life transition, impacting individuals' self-image and identity, particularly when perceived as involuntary.
• The cessation of work can disrupt established social frameworks, sense of purpose, and daily routines integral to one's identity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the phenomenon of physicians continuing their work post-retirement age within public healthcare systems.
• To understand the motivations and factors influencing physicians' decisions to extend their careers beyond the statutory retirement age.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative research design employing semi-structured, in-depth interviews.
• Data collection from twenty physicians across various specialties who have reached retirement age but continue to practice.
• Interviews explored preparation for retirement, fears, reasons for continued work, and expected duration of practice.

Main Results:

• Physicians view their experience as a critical asset, perceiving mandatory retirement at peak professional capacity as forced.
• Concerns regarding a diminished standard of living and reduced income due to inadequate pensions were universally expressed.
• The demanding nature of medical work often leaves physicians without alternative leisure pursuits, while their professional identity is deeply intertwined with their career.

Conclusions:

• Many physicians opt to continue working beyond retirement age, driven by a reluctance to relinquish professional identity, status, and accumulated experience.
• Despite high-pressure hospital environments, the intrinsic value placed on their professional roles and expertise encourages continued practice.