Perception of Neurosurgery as a Career Choice Among Early Career Doctors in Pakistan: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

BackgroundA low neurosurgeon-to-patient ratio persists to be a problem in many developing nations including Pakistan. We aim to investigate the perceptions of medical students regarding neurosurgery as a first step to recognizing this problem, and potentially suggesting ways to solve this. MethodsA questionnaire comprising three sections was designed; 1) Demographics, 2) Possible challenges and perceptions regarding neurosurgery as a profession, and 3) General perceptions about neurosurgery. SPSS version 28.0 was utilized to conduct the statistical analysis with a level of significance 0.05. ResultsOf the 387 responses received, 44.4% of male and 50.6% of female participants revealed intent to ‘consider opting for neurosurgery as a profession’. Regression analysis revealed inadequate dexterity (p=0.001) and inability to carry out private practice (p=0.002) were responsible for increased likelihood of opting out of neurosurgery by medical students. ConclusionsThis study identifies the perceptions that may influence the decision to pursue neurosurgical training among doctors early in their careers. Certain interventions including availability of daycare facilities for children and introduction of curricula to promote neurosurgical knowledge in clinical years are expected to increase the trend towards neurosurgery among medical students of Pakistan.