What do medical students and graduated physicians think about infectious disease specialists?

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study evaluated the social representation and stereotypes on infectious disease (ID) specialists among medical students and physicians in France after the COVID-19 pandemic. MethodsA survey applying the hierarchical evocation model assessed the social representations (SRs) of ID specialists. ResultsAll in all, 372 answers were analyzed. The positive elements related to the personal and professional qualities of ID specialists (‘intellectual prestige”, “open-mindedness”), in contrast with negative stereotypes related to their perceived daily life and practice characteristics (“hospital-based”, “intense”, “overspecialized”). Variables such as “I would not have chosen (or I won’t choose) ID after the national ranking exam” and “I know someone who is an ID specialist” were associated with worse SR scores (p < 0.001 and p = 0.022 respectively). ConclusionsThese findings provide insights into the attractiveness of ID as a specialty. Rounds in ID departments may enhance the interest of the specialty as a possible residency choice.