Choice of histopathology as a specialty among doctors yet to commit to a specialty in a young Nigerian teaching hospital

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the doctors' choice of pathology as a specialty and the factors affecting such choice. Materials and Methods: Self-administered objective-structured questionnaire was administered to doctors in Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, who were yet to commit to a postgraduate specialty by obtaining the primary postgraduate fellowship. Obtained data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software (SPSS) version 16.0. Missing data were excluded from the study. Results: There were 50 (69.4%) respondents from 72 questionnaires distributed. Most of them, 76% (n = 38), have excellent knowledge of the duties of a pathologist. Except for age (P = 0.04), sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge of pathologists' duties do not significantly affect choice about pathology. A total of 29 of 47 (59.2%) respondents rejected histopathology; however, of the 24.5% who might choose histopathology, three rated it last choice while one rated it first. The most common reasons for choosing pathology include flexibility of work hours and availability of job positions. The most common reasons for rejecting pathology include desire for contact with patients, dislike for autopsy, and desire for better remuneration. Most participants, 87.5% (n = 42 of 49), have an overall positive perception of pathology and the pathologist. Course volume, quality of teachers, and pathology examination affect perception of pathology most but not significantly. However, perception does not significantly affect and has weak correlation with choice of pathology. Conclusion: Pathology is not a preferred specialty among doctors seeking postgraduate training in our center. Factors responsible for this state of affairs including desire for better remuneration and contact with patients should be addressed by all those concerned.