[Motivations for choosing the medical profession. Survey of students and physicians]

In Argentina, holding a medical degree allows unrestricted national practice without mandatory specialization. There are 47 medical schools, mostly private. The absence of a national policy on healthcare workforce distribution has led to system imbalances. Medical residency programs, while being the primary path for specialization, have lost appeal -especially Internal Medicine- due to workload and low compensation.

A prospective, cross-sectional observational study was conducted using an anonymous online survey aimed at medical students and physicians. Demographic data, vocational motivations, specialty preferences, and satisfaction levels were collected using Likerttype scales. Data analysis was performed using Epiinfo7.

A total of 605 surveys were analyzed (110 students and 495 physicians). Most respondents reported choosing medicine due to socioeconomic aspirations. Internal Medicine was viewed as essential but burdened and undervalued. Among physicians, 85% obtained their specialty through a residency, though many expressed dissatisfaction regarding salary and lack of post-call rest. Emergency physicians showed a high rate of multiple job holdings, mainly for financial reasons.

Specialty choice is strongly influenced by work conditions and economic factors. Despite its strategic role, Internal Medicine is perceived as unattractive. Active policy measures are needed, including financial incentives, improved working conditions, and enhanced vocational guidance during training, to reverse the current trend and ensure a fair distribution of healthcare professionals across the system.