In this study we examine to what extent hospital specialists would recommend their children or grandchildren to choose a medical career and the sort of working conditions that influence their recommendation. During the spring of 1996 we issued a questionnaire to 664 hospital specialists who qualified in 1970 (107 specialists). 1980 (260 specialists) and 1990 (297 specialists). One out of three specialists would advise his or her children or grandchildren against choosing a medical career. Retired doctors have a more positive attitude than those in employment. 45% of specialists working in hospitals were overworked, and among these 58% of doctors with little scope for decision-making would not recommend a medical career whereas 15% of doctors with greater decision-making responsibilities would advise against a medical career. Job satisfaction contributes positively to hospital specialists recommending a medical career.
Notes
Comment In: Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen. 2002 Aug 20;122(19):186312362706