Factors influencing choice of paediatrics as a career among medical students at the university of Nairobi, Kenya
Abstract
We aimed to determine factors influencing choice of a career in paediatrics by medical students in Kenya.
Methods. A cross-sectional survey of 450 medical students from the University of Nairobi, Kenya, was undertaken using a
questionnaire designed to assess their preferences with regard to future specialisation, and timing of and factors influencing this
choice. The data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences.
Results. The response rate was 385/450 (85.6%). Paediatrics was the second most preferred specialty after surgery, and was
chosen by 50 students (13.0%). Female students were five times more likely than males to select paediatrics. Choice of paediatrics
as a career was mainly determined by perceived intellectual challenge, presence of a role model, and ease of combining a career
with raising a family. Those who had completed a clerkship in the specialty reported that they were encouraged by the teaching
and clinical staff (p=0.006), but found the specialty less prestigious than others (p=0.030). None of the male students but 12 of the
female students (30%) considered gender distribution to be a factor influencing their career choice (p=0.046).
Conclusion. This study indicates that paediatrics is popular among female students and that several factors influence choice of this
specialty. Understanding these factors may help medical school administrators and faculty plan future recruitment strategies.
Citation
Mwachaka, P. M., & Mbugua, E. T. (2010). Factors influencing choice of paediatrics as a career among medical students at the University of Nairobi, Kenya. South African Journal of Child Health, 4(3), 70-72.Publisher
University of Nairobi
Collections
- Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) [10385]