Learn

The inadequate numbers and inequitable distribution of general practitioners have long been problems in Australian primary health care, particularly in rural areas, but they have become increasingly prominent in the past few years. It is projected that the general practitioner workforce will not meet the growing demand in either rural or urban Australia, as relatively few Australian medical students express interest in general practice careers.

Research in Australia and overseas has explored factors that encourage medical students and junior doctors to choose and pursue careers in general practice. Perceptions of better work–life balance, greater autonomy and continuity of care, and closer relationships with patients favour general practice, whereas higher income and status and opportunities for procedural and academic work favour hospital‐based specialties. Perceptions of innately interesting and satisfying work and personal fit with specialty norms and workplaces are also important.

This MJA Research shares more.

Details

Authors: Nancy Sturman, Michael Tran and Sophie Vasiliadis

Article Type: Research