Understanding career choices of young medical professionals in Bangladesh: a mixed-methods study

The health workforce in Bangladesh is undergoing demographic and structural changes, including increasing feminization and imbalances in specialty distribution. Understanding career choices among young doctors is important for workforce planning. A concurrent mixed-methods study was conducted in 2023 among 159 young medical professionals. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, whereas qualitative data from interviews were analysed thematically. The findings from both components were integrated through triangulation, and an ecological model of career progression was developed to synthesize multilevel influences. Participants were mostly female (59.7%) with a mean age of 26.1 years. Almost all (99.4%) intended postgraduate training, mainly in clinical fields (93.0%), with medicine (53.5%) and surgery (34.0%) most preferred. Government service was the top career choice (65.4%). A large proportion also expressed interest in studying abroad (79.9%), and 28.3% planned permanent migration. Career decisions were influenced by work-life balance (91.2%), mental satisfaction (85.5%), personal interest (84.3%), and family responsibilities (76.7%). Qualitative findings revealed that career progression is often unplanned and delayed due to limited guidance, restricted exposure to non-clinical careers, and early career uncertainty. Structural barriers included lengthy recruitment processes, limited postgraduate training opportunities, inappropriate workplace conditions, and restricted career advancement in both the public and private sectors. Overall, career progression reflects interacting influences at individual, social, training, institutional, and policy levels, with global opportunities serving as an alternative pathway amid perceived domestic constraints. Career progression among young doctors in Bangladesh is influenced by both individual motivations and structural constraints. Strengthening career guidance, expanding training opportunities, and improving working conditions are essential for building a balanced and sustainable health workforce.