Irish Journal of Medical Science
Volume 186, Issue 1, 2017, Pages 25-31

Push and stay factors affecting Irish medical student migration intentions (Article)

Gouda P.* , Kitt K. , Evans D.S. , Goggin D. , McGrath D. , Last J. , Hennessy M. , Arnett R. , O’Flynn S. , Dunne F. , O’Donovan D.
  • a National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
  • b University Hospital Galway, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
  • c Department of Public Health, Merlin Park Hospital, HSE West, Galway, Ireland
  • d Department of Public Health, Merlin Park Hospital, HSE West, Galway, Ireland
  • e University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
  • f UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
  • g Education Division, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
  • h Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
  • i University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
  • j College of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS), National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
  • k National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland

Abstract

Background: A significant proportion of medical students in Ireland have demonstrated strong intentions to migrate following their graduation. Factors influencing these intentions are poorly understood. Our study aimed to investigate ‘push’ and ‘stay’ factors that may influence the migration plans of medical students. Methods: Cross-sectional survey of 2273 medical students in Ireland using a mixed methods approach. Survey was completed by 2273 medical students, of which 263 provided free text data that are analysed in this paper. Results: Identified push factors include negative perception regarding career opportunities, working conditions and lifestyle, while family was the only identified strong stay factor. Qualitative analysis of free text responses revealed themes that included training, career, personal and financial factors. Conclusion: This study has provided insight into the factors that influence medical student migration intentions. There is a strong need for all stakeholders to collectively discuss and engage in possible solutions. © 2015, Royal Academy of Medicine in Ireland.

Author Keywords

Medical education Medical student Emigration Qualitative evaluation

Index Keywords

career perception lifestyle Life Style human work environment statistics and numerical data Cross-Sectional Studies Surveys and Questionnaires cross-sectional study Career Choice family Ireland Humans male female Behavior qualitative analysis questionnaire Intention major clinical study decision making Students, Medical medical student
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84949544637&doi=10.1007%2fs11845-015-1388-0&partnerID=40&md5=6f0a83a0d514f8a2f1b8038ab42e43f9
DOI: 10.1007/s11845-015-1388-0
ISSN: 00211265
Original Language: English