Financial Literacy of Medical Trainees: A Major and Worrisome Educational Void to Fill

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the financial literacy of medical trainees and assess knowledge gaps in loan repayment, credit management, investment strategies, and financial planning.

A cross-sectional survey study was conducted at a single institution between July 25, 2023 and January 10, 2024. A 52-question financial literacy survey was distributed to 97 residents and 101 first- and second-year medical students. The survey assessed knowledge across financial domains, including student loans, credit cards, mortgages, investing, and business ownership. Statistical analysis included independent samples t tests and analysis of variance to compare financial literacy scores across trainee levels.

Residents demonstrated significantly higher financial literacy scores than medical students (mean 18.80 vs 9.40 out of 35; P < 0.05). Despite this, substantial knowledge gaps persisted across multiple financial concepts. Of all respondents, 84.5% reported student loan debt exceeding $50,000, yet 64.6% were not enrolled in income-driven repayment plans, and 57.3% could not differentiate between Pay As You Earn and Revised Pay As You Earn. In addition, although 74.2% contributed to retirement accounts, 60.8% lacked knowledge about investment strategies. Despite limited financial literacy, 82.5% expressed interest in receiving structured financial education.

Medical trainees, including both medical students and residents, exhibit significant financial literacy deficits despite their progression through medical education. These findings underscore the need for structured financial education early in training to improve financial decision making, debt management, and long-term financial stability among future healthcare professionals.