Abstract
Introduction:
The doctor-patient ratio in Fiji is below the WHO recommended rate due to migration and most doctors in Fiji are located in urban centers.
Aim:
To explore attitudes to migration overseas and working in rural areas amongst medical students in Fiji and to correlate these to their socio-demographic details to inform admission criteria and incentives to stay.
Method:
A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted. Questionnaires were distributed to students in years 1-3 at FNU. A mixed methods approach was used including Likert scales and open ended questions. Analysis of the data included frequencies, Chi-squared tests and thematic analysis.
Results:
61% (14/23) of rural students want to work in a rural area when they graduate compared to 29% (55/191) of urban students. The chi squared test showed an odds ratio of 3.76 and a p-value of 0.0048 indicating that urban students are far more likely to want to work in an urban area. Altruistic themes were identified in those who intend to work rurally. Factors influencing intention to migrate were training opportunities, working conditions, career pathways, income, safety and quality of life.
Discussion:
Internationally medical schools have recognized other qualities needed in a doctor besides intelligence. FNU needs to discuss transitioning from a purely academic requirement for entry into medical school and work with the Fiji government to address the push and pull factors for migration and rural practice.
Conclusion:
Carefully selected medical students will be willing to stay and work in Fiji and rural areas if conditions are favourable.
The doctor-patient ratio in Fiji is below the WHO recommended rate due to migration and most doctors in Fiji are located in urban centers.
Aim:
To explore attitudes to migration overseas and working in rural areas amongst medical students in Fiji and to correlate these to their socio-demographic details to inform admission criteria and incentives to stay.
Method:
A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted. Questionnaires were distributed to students in years 1-3 at FNU. A mixed methods approach was used including Likert scales and open ended questions. Analysis of the data included frequencies, Chi-squared tests and thematic analysis.
Results:
61% (14/23) of rural students want to work in a rural area when they graduate compared to 29% (55/191) of urban students. The chi squared test showed an odds ratio of 3.76 and a p-value of 0.0048 indicating that urban students are far more likely to want to work in an urban area. Altruistic themes were identified in those who intend to work rurally. Factors influencing intention to migrate were training opportunities, working conditions, career pathways, income, safety and quality of life.
Discussion:
Internationally medical schools have recognized other qualities needed in a doctor besides intelligence. FNU needs to discuss transitioning from a purely academic requirement for entry into medical school and work with the Fiji government to address the push and pull factors for migration and rural practice.
Conclusion:
Carefully selected medical students will be willing to stay and work in Fiji and rural areas if conditions are favourable.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages | 38 |
| Publication status | Published - 11 Jul 2017 |
| Event | Australian & New Zealand Association for Health Professional Educators Conference 2017 - Adelaide, Australia Duration: 11 Jul 2017 → 14 Jul 2017 |
Conference
| Conference | Australian & New Zealand Association for Health Professional Educators Conference 2017 |
|---|---|
| Abbreviated title | ANZAHPE 2017 |
| Country/Territory | Australia |
| City | Adelaide |
| Period | 11/07/17 → 14/07/17 |