Recent Trends in Dermatologists’ Career Choices: A Cross-sectional Study in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Several factors might affect career choice. Limited studies have been conducted to explore these factors among dermatologists. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine prevalent career preferences among Saudi dermatologists and assess the factors associated with those preferences. Design: This was a cross-sectional study. Methods: An online questionnaire was disseminated among 110 Saudi dermatologists who graduated from the national or international dermatology boards in Saudi Arabia between April and July 2020. Main Outcome Measures: Dermatologists’ career choices and associated factors after dermatology board training. Results: Out of the participating dermatologists, 50% were females, and 50% were males. A total of 80% of participants were married, and 74.5% had children. 43.6% of dermatologists decided to pursue academic careers postresidency, 35.5% opted for private practice, and 20.9% opted for governmental clinical practice (Ministry of Health [MOH]/non-MOH). Gaining new skills, a perceived favorable job market, and earning/income potential was the most common motive for pursuing a fellowship, whereas geographic distribution and working hours were the least common motives. Participants aged 46 years and above had a 6.02-fold (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.50–24.15) higher odds of choosing clinical practice over academics compared to participants aged 30–35 years. Having children was associated with a 2.83-fold (95% CI: 1.07–7.50) higher odds of choosing clinical practice over academic. Conclusions: The surveyed dermatologists preferred clinical practice just after residency. After finishing their residency, more than half of the respondents decided to pursue a fellowship. The most important reasons for pursuing a fellowship are the acquisition of new skills and the enhancement of employment opportunities, whereas prestige is the least essential factor. Older age and having children were strongly associated with the odds of choosing clinical practice over academic.