When it is time to decide: factors associated to the choice of a medical specialty

Abstract

After finishing their initial education, physicians can enter post-graduate training programs. In Chile, there are multiple medical specialties options. This review synthesizes the factors associated with the choice of specialty, according to international publications. Students coming from rural areas or small towns would tend to choose Family Medicine. Men prefer specialties such as Surgery. Having relatives in the medical profession, specializing in a specific field, also influence the choice. Concerning interests and preferences, these are linked to personal traits and some biological variables. The inclination towards clinical or surgical fields could be predicted. Academically, the curriculum, good learning experiences and teacher models favor choice, while the harassment suffered could contribute to avoidance. Besides, both prestige and economic prospects are influential factors in the choice and specialties such as Surgery are preferred. The choice of specialty must reach a balance between the students' interests and public health needs. Identifying these factors would allow a better understanding of the present shortfall (or surplus) in certain fields and contribute to the definition of policies and decision-making.