AMA survey calls for changes in medical training
An AMA-commissioned survey of doctors-in-training has found that lifestyle and flexible working conditions are the major factors determining the specialty choice and preferred career path of medical students.
Remuneration was relegated to last spot in a list of eight career determinants.
The survey findings have important implications for hospitals and medical training organisations with the clear message that more flexible work and training options for doctors are needed.
The survey - conducted during September this year by TQA Research - involved intensive focus group work with 80 senior medical students and junior doctors in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide.
AMA President, Dr Kerryn Phelps, said she welcomes the fact that young doctors are putting more thought and planning into balancing their careers with their private lives.
"It is now more about life choices and striking a proper balance between work and leisure and family and friends," Dr Phelps said.
"Medical training takes a huge chunk out of a person's life and involves incredible personal sacrifice. More thought is now given to safe working hours and part time work and training - things that will keep doctors in the profession longer and happier.
"It is appropriate that junior doctors are now seriously planning for the future by making sure that their career does not completely dominate their lives and the lives of their partners and families, now and in the years ahead when they are working in the community," Dr Phelps said.
The survey findings reflect the change in the demographics of the medical workforce - with a majority of women graduates and demands by both young men and women doctors for a better work life balance.
Chair of the AMA's Council of Doctors-in-Training, Dr Sarah Whitelaw, said the survey is a valid reflection of the attitudes of doctors-in-training today.
"This survey will form the basis for lobbying by the AMA of hospitals and medical colleges to encourage greater flexibility in the medical workplace," Dr Whitelaw said.
The full report can be found on the AMA website - ama.com.au - or contact AMA Public Affairs (see below) for a copy of the Executive Summary.
CONTACT: John Flannery (02) 6270 5477 / (0419) 494 761
Sarah Crichton (02) 6270 5472 / (0419) 440 076