Migration intentions among physicians working in Polish hospitals – Insights from survey research

Abstract

BackgroundHealth workforce shortages could lead to burnout, excessive workload, dissatisfaction and consequently to migration. In Poland the exact scale of physician migration is unknown due to insufficient data. MethodsA quantitative, cross-sectional survey of physicians working in Polish hospitals was conducted between March and June 2018. 15 Polish hospitals were included in the study (7 general, 5 specialist, 3 university). The data was gathered via an on-line, self-administered questionnaire, sent to physicians working in the included hospitals. Associations between the intention to migrate and demographic characteristics as well as work-related variables and overall satisfaction were measured. Simple and multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine significant predictors of migration. Results1003 questionnaires were analyzed (response rate: 38%). 273 doctors declared the intention to migrate: 4.5% answering ‘definitely yes’ and 22.7% ‘probably yes’. The main reasons were: higher earnings, better working conditions and better work-life balance abroad. Age and higher career satisfaction were negatively related to the intention to migrate: OR = 0.94 (95% CI 0,92–0,95) and OR = 0.44 (95% CI 0.34–0.56) respectively. Women were 54% less likely to intend to migrate than men (OR = 0.46, 95% CI 0.33-0.65). Almost 62% of physicians intending to migrate considered a temporary stay abroad. ConclusionsSpecial attention should be paid to improving working conditions, including salary, but also reducing bureaucracy, improvement of work-climate and training opportunities.