Why don't young doctors want to be surgeons?

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Healthcare Workforce

Background:

• Significant staff shortages are evident in Polish surgery.
• There is a declining interest among young doctors in specializing in general surgery.
• The aging surgical workforce necessitates urgent attention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify reasons for reluctance among Polish doctors in training and residents towards surgical specialization.
• To explore potential measures for increasing interest in general surgery among students and trainees.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was conducted between August 5 and December 30, 2019.
• The study included 2,498 participants: doctors in training and resident doctors.
• Data was collected to analyze factors influencing career choices in surgery.

Main Results:

• The primary reason cited for reluctance is the imbalance between remuneration and professional responsibility.
• High overtime hours, significant physical and mental strain, and fear of limited surgical opportunities were frequently reported.
• These factors contribute to a negative perception of surgical careers among young physicians.

Conclusions:

• Urgent changes are needed in the educational and training models for surgical residents.
• Addressing work-life balance, compensation, and professional development is essential.
• Implementing reforms can help revitalize interest in surgical careers and mitigate workforce shortages.