What motivates young European doctors for rural work? European Rural and Isolated Practitioners...

Rural general practitioners (GPs) play a vital role in providing healthcare to populations in remote areas, yet there is a significant shortage of doctors willing to work in these regions. Despite the critical need, a strong preference for urban practices persists among young GPs in Europe, exacerbating the lack of healthcare providers in rural settings. Understanding the motivation factors influencing young GPs' decisions to work in rural areas is essential to address this workforce distribution problem.

This study aims to identify the main motivating factors that drive young GPs to work in rural areas across four European countries. Additionally, the study seeks to propose strategies to enhance recruitment of young GPs in rural healthcare settings.

A key informant survey was conducted across four member countries of the European Rural and Isolated Practitioners Association (EURIPA). The EURIPA Motivating young EuropeAn DOctors for rural Work (MEADOW) study utilized a semi-structured questionnaire. The survey targeted young GPs in Denmark, Norway, Turkey, and the Czech Republic, collecting data from 350 respondents.

Our survey revealed that 64.14% of young GPs expressed an interest in rural practice, with major motivating factors including accessibility of schooling for their children, income profitability, and employment opportunities for partners.

The study highlights that financial incentives alone are insufficient to motivate young GPs to work in rural areas. Instead, a comprehensive approach that includes improving rural medical education, ensuring access to quality schools for children, and providing employment opportunities for partners is crucial. Addressing these multifaceted needs can enhance rural recruitment and retention efforts across Europe.