Self-reported influence of monetary grants in the choice of a medical residency in remote or under-served areas.
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ABSTRACT: OBJECTIVES:To evaluate the effect of monetary grants on young physicians' choice of remote or rural hospital-based practice. BACKGROUND:In late 2011, The Israeli Ministry of Health attempted to address a severe physician maldistribution, which involved severe shortages in remotely-located institutions (RLI). The policy intervention included offering monetary grants to residents who chose a residency program in a RLI. METHODS:A total of 222 residents from various disciplines were recruited; 114 residents from RLI and 108 residents from central-located institutions (CLI), who began their residency during 2012-2014. Participants were surveyed on demographic, academic and professional data, and on considerations in the choice of residency location. RESULTS:Residents in RLI attributed significantly more importance to the grant in their decision-making process than did residents from CLI. This effect remained significant in a multivariate model (OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.20-2.27, p = 0.002). The only parameter significantly associated with attributing importance to the grant was older age (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.00-1.19, p = 0.049). CONCLUSION:The choice of a RLI for residency may be influenced by monetary grants. This is consistent with real-life data showing an increase in medical staffing in these areas during the program's duration. Further studies are needed to determine causality and physical practicality of such programs.
SUBMITTER: Wasserstrum Y
PROVIDER: S-EPMC6376660 | biostudies-other | 2019 Feb
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other
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