Exploring Postgraduate Specialization Preferences and Workplace Aspirations among Medical Students and Doctors in Bangladesh: Unveiling the Path to the Golden Dream

Abstract

Background: Determining postgraduate study preferences and the choice of a conducive work environment are crucial for the development of a country's healthcare system. As an overpopulated South Asian country, Bangladesh must assess the interests of medical students and doctors in specialized fields and plan to create sufficient job opportunities for healthcare professionals, maximizing the use of limited resources.
Objective: To assess the fascination of the medical students and doctors for post-graduation subjects and their preference for selection of future workplaces.
Materials and Methods: This observational study was conducted among MBBS students and doctors at Khwaja Yunus Ali Medical College (KYAMC), Enayetpur, Sirajganj, from July to December 2024. A total of 246 participants, aged 20 to 30, were randomly selected, including 119 males and 127 females. Data was collected through a self-reported questionnaire that included demographic information and questions about their interests, reasons for selecting postgraduate specialties, and preferred workplaces.
Results: The study found that 86.58% of participants were interested in postgraduate studies in clinical fields. Among them, 21% chose Internal Medicine, 17% selected Surgery, and 13% opted for Obstetrics and Gynecology. Other popular specialties included Radiology (16.66%), Endocrinology and Metabolism (13.82%), and Medical Oncology (10.16%). Regarding preferred workplaces, 56% favored the Government sector, while only 18.6% preferred the private sector.
Conclusion: This study explored the factors influencing the selection of postgraduate specialties and workplace preferences. In the future, the findings of this research will assist policymakers in developing new policies for the healthcare sector.

KYAMC Journal Vol. 15, No. 04, January 2025: 163-168