Introduction
This review takes a narrative synthesis approach – a systematic
approach to interpreting complex evidence – to a broad literature
review of the complex issue of medical career decision making.
Addressing the Australian general practice workforce crisis
requires an understanding of career choice motivators. The
biggest recruitment losses are those not ever considering general
practice as a career. Although flexibility and work-life balance are
important motivators, more important is the perceived intellectual
challenge of the career. Most career decisions are made in the
early postgraduate years when doctors have little general practice
exposure and many form incorrect perceptions. The morale and self
esteem of the general practice profession has an important impact
on choice. Every general practice encounter is an opportunity to
showcase the profession as an intellectually stimulating, challenging
and interesting career choice.
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