Determinants of medical student's perception of general practice

Enhancing the attractiveness of a career in general practice is a significant public health concern, given the current shortage in Belgium.

The objective of this study is to determine the factors that influence students' decisions to pursue a career in general practice and their perceptions of it.

This prospective study was conducted in May 2023. A questionnaire, based on existing literature, was distributed to final-year medical students. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and bivariate tests (chi² test).

Out of the 142 participating students (response rate: 45%), 29.3% expressed a preference for general practice, while 70.7% opted for other specialties. These groups exhibited significant differences (p < 0.05) not only in terms of socio-demographic factors (nationality, parent's education) but also in their perceptions of general practice. The latter group associated it with routine work (89.2%) and feelings of loneliness (58.5%), in contrast to the former (36.1% and 24.3%, respectively). Moreover, 76.6% of students reported a shift in their perception of general practice during their medical education. General practice internships (71.9%), GPs (78.2%), and interactions with patients (68.9%) had a positive influence on their perception, while instructors in hospital settings (72.9%) and peers (37%) often portrayed general practice as a less favourable career option.

Perceptions of general practice are significantly shaped by interactions with role models from the medical sector who convey either a positive or negative image of general practice. To address the shortage issue, it is imperative to increase positive interactions with GPs within the curriculum and work towards changing the institutional culture at this level.