Swiss residents' arguments for and against a career in medicine
2006

Swiss Residents' Views on a Career in Medicine

Sample size: 567 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Buddeberg-Fischer Barbara, Dietz Claudia, Klaghofer Richard, Buddeberg Claus

Primary Institution: Zurich University Hospital

Hypothesis

What arguments do Swiss residents give for and against a career in medicine?

Conclusion

Residents mainly complain about deteriorating structural working conditions, including an unfavourable work-life balance.

Supporting Evidence

  • 70% of positive statements were about personal and interpersonal experiences.
  • 32% of negative statements were about general work-related structural conditions.
  • One in five residents would not choose to become a doctor again.

Takeaway

Many Swiss medical residents feel that being a doctor is hard because of long hours and stress, but they also find it rewarding to help people.

Methodology

567 fourth-year residents were surveyed about their arguments for and against a career in medicine, with responses analyzed using content analysis.

Potential Biases

Responses may be influenced by social desirability or the current climate in the medical profession.

Limitations

The study may not represent all medical residents as it only includes those from three medical schools in German-speaking Switzerland.

Participant Demographics

The sample consisted of 303 females (53.4%) and 264 males (46.6%), with a mean age of 31.3 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6963-6-98

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